Why Youβll Love This Cornflake Chicken Tenders
I remember my mom whipping up this cornflake chicken tenders recipe on busy evenings, and it always saved the day! Itβs super simple to make with just a few ingredients you probably have on hand, turning out crispy and delicious without much effort. Plus, itβs a hit with kids and adults alike, making dinner time fun and stress-free.
First off, the ease of preparation is a game-changer for busy parents like me. This recipe comes together in about 50 minutes total, with just 35 minutes of prep, so you can enjoy a homemade meal even on weeknights. It uses lean chicken breast, which offers great health benefits by packing in protein while keeping fat low, supporting a balanced diet that feels good and tastes even better.
Another reason to try it is the versatility for all sorts of dietary needs. You can tweak it for gluten-free options or even go vegan, which makes it perfect for feeding a crowd with different preferences. And letβs not forget that distinctive flavor the cornflake coating adds a subtle sweetness and crunch that sets it apart from regular chicken, creating a meal everyone will want to make again and again!
Jump To
- 1. Why Youβll Love This Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- 5. Mastering Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- 8. Cornflake Chicken Tenders
Essential Ingredients for Cornflake Chicken Tenders
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, and Iβve got the list straight from my kitchen notes. Letβs break it down so you can see exactly what you need for that perfect crunchy bite.
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups cornflakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus more to taste
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
These ingredients make the dish come alive with flavor and texture, and you can swap things like milk for dairy-free options if needed. I love how straightforward they are, perfect for students or working pros looking to keep things simple yet tasty.
How to Prepare the Perfect Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with this recipe is as easy as pie, and Iβll walk you right through it! First, preheat your oven to 425Β°F and line a sheet pan with foil, then coat it with cooking spray to avoid any sticking mess. This step sets the stage for crispy results that will have your family asking for seconds.
Next, whisk the 1/2 cup milk and 2 eggs together in a bowl to create that perfect binding mixture. Now, pulse the 4 cups cornflakes with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a food processor until you get coarse crumbs, then pour it onto a plate. Season your 1 1/4 pounds of chicken tenders with a bit more salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Dip each chicken piece into the milk and egg mix, then coat it thoroughly with the cornflake mixture for that golden crunch. Place the coated chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet, give the tops a light spray with cooking spray, and bake for 15 minutes until itβs cooked through and crispy. Finish by sprinkling on 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and serve it up hot itβs that simple!
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cornflake Chicken Tenders
One of the best parts of this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own, especially if you have specific dietary needs! For instance, if youβre going vegan, swap the chicken for firm tofu strips and use a flaxseed egg instead of the real ones. Itβs a quick change that keeps the crunch without any fuss.
You can also try turkey breast as a lean alternative to chicken, or even fish fillets for a fun twist. When it comes to seasonings, mix in things like Cajun blends or Italian herbs to shake up the flavors. For gluten-free folks, just grab gluten-free cornflakes and youβre good to go, making this dish flexible for everyone from newlyweds to seniors exploring new meals.
Mastering Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once youβve got the basics down, letβs add some fun twists to make this recipe even better! For extra crispiness, double coat the tenders by dipping them in the egg and cornflake mixture twice itβs a small step that makes a big difference. I like using a convection oven to get that even browning, and letting the coated tenders rest for a minute helps the coating stick just right.
Play around with flavors by adding spices like chili powder or garlic powder to the mix, or toss in Some grated Parmesan for an umami kick. When it comes to serving, lay the tenders on a bed of fresh greens and top with herbs like parsley for a pretty plate. If youβre into meal prep, coat the tenders ahead of time and freeze them individually then just pop them in the oven when you need a quick dinner.
How to Store Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Best Practices
Storing these tenders keeps them tasty for later, and itβs easier than you think! Keep cooked ones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, so theyβre ready for lunch the next day. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then move to bags for up to 2 months.
When itβs time to reheat, use your oven at 350Β°F to keep that crispiness intact skip the microwave to avoid sogginess. This works great for busy professionals who want meals prepped in advance, just label your containers with dates so nothing goes to waste.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cornflake Chicken Tenders
How do I make crispy cornflake chicken tenders at home?
To make crispy cornflake chicken tenders, start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Dip each piece into a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, then coat thoroughly with crushed, seasoned cornflakes. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400Β°F (200Β°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. For extra crispiness, you can spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.
What are some easy dipping sauces to serve with cornflake chicken tenders?
Popular dipping sauces for cornflake chicken tenders include honey mustard, ranch dressing, and barbecue sauce. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or a sweet chili sauce. Offering a variety of sauces caters to different tastes and adds flavor variety, making the dish more enjoyable as an appetizer or main course.
Can I make cornflake chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes, cornflake chicken tenders can be gluten-free by using gluten-free cornflakes and ensuring all other ingredients, such as seasonings and dipping sauces, are free from gluten. Check packaging labels carefully. Gluten-free cornflakes provide the same crunchy texture, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
What are some healthy side dishes to pair with cornflake chicken tenders?
Healthy side dishes that complement cornflake chicken tenders include steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. For starch options, consider quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. These sides balance the meal by adding fiber, vitamins, and nutrients alongside the crispy chicken.
How can I store and reheat leftover cornflake chicken tenders?
Store leftover cornflake chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C), place the tenders on a baking sheet, and heat for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy. This method preserves the crunchy texture while warming the chicken thoroughly.

Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
π Enjoy a delightfully crispy and flavorful meal with this Cornflake Chicken recipe that combines a crunchy coating with juicy chicken.
π§βπ³ Simple and quick to prepare, itβs perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying home-cooked dinner.
Ingredients
β 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
β 1/2 cup milk
β 2 eggs
β 4 cups cornflakes
β 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
β 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
β 1 teaspoon sugar
β 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
β 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus more to taste
β cooking spray
β 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
1-Getting started with this recipe is as easy as pie, and Iβll walk you right through it! First, preheat your oven to 425Β°F and line a sheet pan with foil, then coat it with cooking spray to avoid any sticking mess. This step sets the stage for crispy results that will have your family asking for seconds.
2-Next, whisk the 1/2 cup milk and 2 eggs together in a bowl to create that perfect binding mixture. Now, pulse the 4 cups cornflakes with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a food processor until you get coarse crumbs, then pour it onto a plate. Season your 1 1/4 pounds of chicken tenders with a bit more salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3-Dip each chicken piece into the milk and egg mix, then coat it thoroughly with the cornflake mixture for that golden crunch. Place the coated chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet, give the tops a light spray with cooking spray, and bake for 15 minutes until itβs cooked through and crispy. Finish by sprinkling on 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and serve it up hot itβs that simple!
Notes
π½οΈ Chicken breast tenders cook quickest; adjust baking times for other cuts.
πΎ Crush cornflakes finely using a food processor or rolling pin for even coating.
π₯ Serve immediately for maximum crispiness; reheat leftovers in an oven to restore texture.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 271 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 479 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Cornflake chicken, crispy chicken, baked chicken, easy dinner