Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders: A Crispy Delight for All Ages

When it comes to chicken tenders, nothing beats a perfectly baked version that is crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Enter Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders—your new go-to family meal that checks all the right boxes. Imagine tender chicken strips enveloped in a crunchy cornflake coating, seasoned with a mix of spices that deliver a delightful punch. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and will have everyone asking for seconds! Stick around as we guide you through this fantastic recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Let’s dive into why these tenders are not just any ordinary dish; they are truly something special!

Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for anyone who is short on time but still wants a homemade meal.
Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to cooking, don’t worry! With simple steps and familiar ingredients, you’ll feel like a pro.
Ideal for the Whole Family: Kid-approved and adult-friendly, these chicken tenders cater to all tastes, making them an ideal choice for family dinners.
Economical: Using cost-effective ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Customizable: Whether you want to spice it up or keep it mild, this recipe can easily be tailored to suit your flavor preferences.

The Necessary Ingredients

To create your delicious Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

1.5 lbs chicken tenders or boneless breasts (sliced into strips)
3 cups cornflakes (crushed, not powdered)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk or buttermilk
Olive oil or cooking spray

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients

Chicken Tenders: You can use boneless chicken breasts cut into strips if you can’t find tenders. Both work well for this recipe.
Cornflakes: While cornflakes give an excellent texture, you can swap them with other cereals like crushed Rice Krispies or panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
Milk or Buttermilk: If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 2 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice with 2 tbsp of regular milk.

How to Prepare the Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders Step by Step

Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly baked tenders:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy coating.
- Pro Tip: Ensure that your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside. It helps to create that crispy exterior right from the start.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top, if available.
- Pro Tip: Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and a crispier finish.
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Pro Tip: Drying the chicken helps the coating adhere better.
Crush the Cornflakes: Place cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or your hands, leaving some texture. In a bowl, mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Parmesan if using.
- Pro Tip: The varying sizes of the crumbs will create an interesting crunch!
Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk or buttermilk.
- Pro Tip: This mixture will help the cornflake coating stick to the chicken strips nicely.
Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, and then coat in the seasoned cornflakes, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick.
- Pro Tip: The pressing motion ensures that the coating adheres well, leading to a more satisfying crunch when baked.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the coated tenders on the wire rack or lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
- Pro Tip: A little oil on top can make a big difference, helping to brown the coating.
Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the tenders halfway through for even browning.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Pro Tip: Allowing them to rest helps to lock in moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders are so versatile! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them:

Perfect Pairings

Dipping Sauces: Try them with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce for a delightful contrast.
Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or sweet potato fries.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: A quick and satisfying meal option for the busy week.
Game Day Snacks: Perfect finger food for your next sports gathering or get-together!
Picnic Treats: Easy to pack and delicious cold or warm; a hit at any outdoor gathering.

Serving Tips

Serving Platter: Arrange them on a platter with colorful dipping sauces for an inviting presentation.
Garnishing: Sprinkle fresh herbs or lemon zest over the top for a fresh finishing touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders fresh for later, follow these guidelines:

Refrigerated

Duration: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Type of Container: Use a glass or plastic container that seals tightly to prevent moisture loss.

Freezed

Packaging: Place cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Defrosting: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature.

Reheating

Best Method: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to re-crisp the coating. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To help you achieve perfect Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t Skip Drying the Chicken: A dry chicken surface allows the coating to adhere better.
Ensure Even Coating: Press down on the cornflake crumbs to ensure they stick well to the chicken.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly for crispy results.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few tasty variations on the classic recipe:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a flavorful kick.
For a Gluten-Free Version: Substitute cornflakes with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal.
For a Herby Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite dried herbs (like Italian seasoning) to the cornflake mixture for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q: Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?

A: If they’re not crispy, they may have too much moisture or have been covered while cooling. Make sure to dry the chicken well and bake them on a wire rack.

Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prep the chicken and coating in advance, store them separately in the fridge, then bake just before serving.

Q: What should I do if my coating falls off?

A: Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the egg wash before rolling it in the cornflakes. Press down firmly on the coating to help it adhere.

Q: Can I bake these tenders from frozen?

A: Yes, baked from frozen, increase the baking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Q: How do I make these tenders in an air fryer?

A: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Q: How do I make these tenders without eggs?

A: Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.

With your craving for crispy goodness set to be satisfied, you’re all set to make your own Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders. Enjoy this culinary adventure that’s not only fun to prepare but equally delightful to eat! Happy cooking!