Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious, Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders are the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love! This recipe transforms humble chicken strips into a golden-brown masterpiece that rivals anything you’d find in a restaurant. Imagine tender chicken coated in a crunchy cornflake crust, seasoned to perfection, and baked until golden. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort to any dinner table. In this post, we’ll explore how to make these irresistible tenders while enjoying the added benefits of being a healthier baked option. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are not only delicious but also come with a variety of benefits that make them a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love them:

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is ideal for novice cooks or anyone looking for a straightforward way to impress with homemade chicken tenders.
• Ideal for the Whole Family: Adults and kids alike will enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful taste—perfect for picky eaters!
• Economical: Made with affordable ingredients, this dish saves you money while providing a delicious meal.
• Healthy Alternative: Baked instead of fried, you get all the crunch without the excess oil, making it a better choice for health-conscious households.

The Necessary Ingredients

Before you head to the kitchen, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 sliced into strips. If you’re using thighs, note that they’ll be juicier but may result in a different texture.

• Cornflakes: While cornflakes are traditional for this recipe, you could substitute with crushed panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch or even gluten-free cornflakes if you’re avoiding gluten.

• Eggs: If you’re looking for a vegan substitute, consider using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), which binds the coating while keeping it plant-based.

How to Prepare the Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders Step by Step

Ready to make these delicious chicken tenders? Follow these simple steps to create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   Preheating is essential for achieving that crispy golden crust on your chicken tenders. It helps cook them evenly and seals in moisture.
   Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy!

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top, if available.
   Using a wire rack ensures air circulation around the chicken, making it even crisper. If you don’t have one, the chicken will still turn out well with a lined baking sheet.
   Pro Tip: Make sure to spray the rack with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
   Drying the chicken helps the coating stick better while ensuring the chicken cooks through without steaming.
   Pro Tip: Seasoning the chicken helps build flavor right from the start.

4. Crush the cornflakes in a zip-top bag and mix with seasonings in a bowl.
   This step creates the crispy coating. Crushing the cornflakes helps them adhere better to the chicken. You want a mix of fine crumbs and larger bits for texture!
   Pro Tip: For extra flavor, toast the cornflakes in a pan for a few minutes before coating.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk or buttermilk.
   This mixture acts as a glue for the cornflakes, keeping them stuck to the chicken during cooking. It adds moisture and richness to the crunchy coating.
   Pro Tip: Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy; it helps create a better coating.

6. Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat in the seasoned cornflakes.
   Ensure every piece is well-coated for maximum crunchiness. Press the cornflake mixture onto the chicken for an even layer.
   Pro Tip: Don’t double-dip—this will lead to a soggy coating.

7. Arrange the tenders on the baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil.
   Spraying the chicken with olive oil enhances crunchiness and color as they bake.
   Pro Tip: A light spritz of oil can make all the difference!

8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
   Turning the chicken halfway allows both sides to get that lovely crispy texture. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
   Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.

9. Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
   Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making for a juicier bite.
   Pro Tip: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders are ready, think about how you want to serve them. Here are some creative ideas:

Perfect Pairings

• Dips: Try them with classic ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
• Sides: Serve with a fresh garden salad, sweet potato fries, or steamed broccoli.

Occasions

• Weeknight Dinner: Quick to make and satisfying after a long day.
• Game Day: They make fantastic finger food for parties and gatherings!
• Kids Parties: Fun and familiar for picky eaters; perfect for birthday bashes.

Serving Tips

• Use decorative plates or ramekins for sauces to jazz up the presentation.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will), here’s how to store and reheat your golden tenders:

Refrigerated

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Type of container: Glass or plastic containers work well to maintain freshness.

Freezed

• If possible: They can be frozen, but ideally, you should freeze before baking if you plan to make a larger batch.
• Packaging: Wrapping in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or using a freezer-safe container will help maintain quality.
• Defrosting: Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for quick defrosting.

Reheating

• Best method: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain the crispy texture.
• Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, microwaving is quick but may lead to a loss of crunch.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure success with your Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders, keep these pointers in mind:

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: This can trap steam and prevent crispiness.
• Use a wire rack: For that signature crunch and even baking.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing: Slicing too early can lead to dry tenders.
• Update seasonings: Tailor the spices to your taste to keep it interesting.

Recipe Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider these fun variations of the basic recipe:

• For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cornflake mixture for a spicy kick.
• For Asian-inspired tenders: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds and 1 teaspoon of soy sauce into the egg mixture.
• For a cheesy kick: Mix in 3 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese into the cornflakes for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight before preparing to ensure even cooking.

Q: How can I make the tenders gluten-free?
A: Substitute the cornflakes with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes.

Q: What if I want to make these tenders ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken and cornflake coating ahead of time, just remember to store them separately until ready to bake.

Q: Why did my chicken tenders turn out soggy?
A: This can happen if the baking sheet was overcrowded or if there wasn’t enough oil to allow crisping. Ensure proper air circulation.

Q: Can I bake these in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Q: How do I keep them warm for serving?
A: Place the cooked tenders on a wire rack in a warm (200°F) oven until you are ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have cornflakes?
A: Try using crushed potato chips, Ritz crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs as an alternative crunch!

With this comprehensive guide, you’re all set to make the most delicious Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders that will please everyone at your table. Enjoy cooking, and get ready to bake like a pro!