Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

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why make this recipe

Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to enjoy a delightful meal with a crispy twist. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves fried chicken but wants a healthier oven-baked alternative. The cornflakes give these chicken tenders a satisfying crunch while keeping them juicy on the inside. They are easy to make and kid-friendly, making them a hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, you’ll find that they do not require complicated ingredients or extensive cooking skills. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love.

These chicken tenders are versatile. You can serve them as a main dish or in sandwiches. It’s an excellent way to use chicken tenders, as they cook quickly and are flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or enjoying a cozy weekend meal, Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders will surely please everyone at the table.

how to make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Making Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process. You will need to follow a series of simple steps to achieve that perfect crunch and juiciness. Below are the ingredients and the directions for making these delicious chicken tenders.

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:

Preheat the oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is an important step to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Set up a breading station: Get three bowls ready. In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In the second bowl, beat the two eggs. In the third bowl, place the crushed cornflakes.
Coat the chicken: Take each chicken tender and coat it first in the flour mixture. This helps the egg to stick. Then dip the tender in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, followed by the crushed cornflakes. Press the cornflakes onto the chicken to get a good layer of crunch.
Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s space between each tender so they cook evenly.
Bake the chicken: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve: After they are cooked, serve your Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauces and some fresh vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.

how to serve Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Serving Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders is easy and fun. There are several options to present these tasty bites:

With Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or spicy aioli. This adds an extra layer of flavor and lets everyone choose what they like best.
On a Salad: You can slice the cooked chicken tenders and serve them on top of a fresh salad. This adds protein to your greens and makes a healthy meal choice.
In Sandwiches: Use these chicken tenders as the main filling in a sandwich or wrap. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiments for a delicious handheld meal.
Alongside Sides: Pair them with some oven-baked fries, sweet potato wedges, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders will reduce the need for elaborate sides. Their flavor and crunch take center stage!

how to store Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, storing these chicken tenders is simple. Here are some easy steps:

Let them cool: Allow your chicken tenders to cool down to room temperature first. This prevents condensation from forming in the storage container.
Use an airtight container: Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Refrigerate: Store the sealed container in the refrigerator. The chicken tenders will stay good for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze the chicken tenders. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly each time:

Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken tenders. This directly impacts the flavor and texture of your dish.
Crush the cornflakes finely: For the best crunch, ensure that your cornflakes are crushed adequately. If they are too coarse, they may not stick to the chicken well.
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the tenders space on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which reduces their crunchiness.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to play with the spices in the flour mixture. Some suggestions include onion powder, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of cumin for a smoky flavor.
Double-dip for extra crunch: For an even crunchier texture, you can double-dip your chicken tenders. After the first coating, let them sit for a few minutes and then repeat the process going back to the flour mixture followed by the egg wash and cornflakes.
Test for doneness: Always check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, cutting into the thickest part of the tender to check for doneness can work as well. The meat should be white, not pink, and the juices should run clear.

variation

While the classic recipe is delicious, you can make variations of Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders to match your taste or diet preferences:

Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add more cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
Cheesy Chicken Tenders: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the cornflake coating for a cheesy flavor boost.
Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano to the flour mixture for added freshness.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free cornflakes to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

Can I make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! Coat the chicken tenders, and then store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight before baking.

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Absolutely! This recipe calls for baking, which is a healthier option. Baking allows the chicken tenders to become crispy without the added oil used in frying.

Why are my chicken tenders not crunchy?

If your chicken tenders are not crunchy, it is often because they have been overcrowded on the baking sheet, causing steaming instead of baking. Also, ensure that the cornflakes are crushed finely and pressed onto the chicken well.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips to mimic the size of chicken tenders. You may need to adjust the cooking time for the larger pieces.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders?

Popular dipping sauces include ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, sweet and sour sauce, and hot sauce. Feel free to mix and match according to your personal preference!

With these details, you can confidently make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!