Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

why make this recipe

Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders make a perfect addition to any family meal or party. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The crispy texture of cornflakes combined with juicy chicken tenders makes for a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they are baked, which makes them a healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken. These tenders are fun to eat and can be served with a wide variety of dipping sauces, making them a versatile dish suitable for both kids and adults.

how to make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Making Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to create a dish that is full of flavor and texture. Just follow the easy steps below, and you will have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving crispy chicken tenders. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the flour mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you want a little extra heat. This seasoning mix will add great flavor to your chicken tenders.

3. Beat the eggs: In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs. This egg wash will help the coating stick to the chicken tenders, making them crunchy and delicious.

4. Crush the cornflakes: In a third bowl, put the 2 cups of crushed cornflakes. You can crush them slightly with your hands or use a rolling pin in a zip-top bag for this step.

5. Coat the chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and first dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully covered in egg. Finally, roll the chicken tender in the crushed cornflakes until it’s well-coated. This three-step process is key to achieving that crispy, crunchy exterior.

6. Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart so they cook evenly.

7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces and fresh veggies for a crunchy and satisfying meal.

how to serve Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some suggestions:

• Dipping sauces: Create a dipping station with sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo. This allows everyone to pick their favorite choice.

• Sides: Serve these chicken tenders with healthy sides such as carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, or a fresh garden salad. You can also add some sweet potato fries or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

• Wraps and sandwiches: You can use these tenders in wraps or sandwiches. Just add some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a tasty meal on the go.

how to store Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they are so delicious!), storing them properly will ensure they stay fresh:

1. Cool down: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely at room temperature.

2. Refrigerate: Place the cool chicken tenders in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

3. Reheat: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for about 5-10 minutes, which works great for reheating.

tips to make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

1. Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh chicken tenders for the best flavor and texture. Frozen tenders can work, but they may not taste as good.

2. Custom seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the flour mixture to suit your taste. Consider adding onion powder, Italian seasoning, or lemon zest for a unique twist.

3. Cornflake alternatives: While cornflakes offer a great crunch, you can substitute them with other cereals or crushed crackers. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cornflakes or crushed gluten-free crackers.

4. Healthier fats: For an even healthier option, use cooking spray instead of oil, or spray the chicken tenders lightly with vegetable oil before baking.

5. Make ahead: If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can coat the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This saves time and makes meal prep easier.

variation

If you want to try some variations on the standard Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders, consider these options:

• Spicy kick: Add more cayenne pepper or some chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicier version.

• Cheesy flavor: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the cornflake coating for an extra layer of flavor.

• Herbed chicken: Add dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the flour mix for an Italian twist.

• Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute chicken tenders with tofu strips, mushrooms, or zucchini sticks. Simply follow the same coating process for a delightful vegetarian dish.

FAQs

What can I serve with Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders?

You can serve them with various dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. Pair them with veggies, salads, or sides like mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Can I freeze Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken tenders before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use other types of cereal for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute cornflakes with other crispy cereals such as Rice Krispies or even crushed pretzels for different flavors and textures.

How do I ensure my chicken tenders stay crispy after baking?

To keep the chicken tenders crispy, make sure they are evenly coated with the cornflakes, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Allowing some space ensures they bake evenly and stay crispy.

How can I make this dish healthier?

For a healthier version, you can use less oil, bake instead of fry, or pair the chicken tenders with plenty of fresh vegetables and a light dipping sauce. Using whole-grain cornflakes can also add fiber to the dish.

These Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders are a treat everyone will love! They are easy to make and customizable for different tastes and dietary needs. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tenders are sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking!

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