Go Back
Chicken tenders have long held a special place in the hearts of families and food enthusiasts alike. Their tender, juicy texture paired with a crispy exterior makes them a go-to dish for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even a comforting meal at home. The appeal of chicken tenders transcends age groups, as both children and adults find joy in their simplicity and flavor. However, a delightful twist on this classic dish is about to elevate your chicken tender game: the use of cornflakes for an irresistible crunch.

Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Discover the delicious twist on a classic favorite with this Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders recipe! These juicy tenders feature a perfectly crispy exterior thanks to crushed cornflakes, bringing a delightful crunch to every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish is versatile with baking or frying options and pairs perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. Easy to customize for dietary preferences, these tenders are sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) chicken tenders

2 cups cornflakes, finely crushed

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for baking or frying)

Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Dipping sauce of your choice (such as Ranch, BBQ, or Honey Mustard)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: If you choose to bake the chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and to prevent sticking.

    Set Up the Dredging Stations:

      - In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed through the flour.

        - In another shallow bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them until fully blended and smooth.

          - In a third shallow bowl, pour in the crushed cornflakes, ensuring they are finely crushed for better adhesion.

            Coat the Chicken Tenders:

              - Take a chicken tender and dip it first into the flour mixture. Ensure it is fully covered before shaking off any excess flour.

                - Next, immerse the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off back into the bowl.

                  - Finally, roll the chicken tender in the crushed cornflakes, pressing down lightly to ensure the cornflakes stick well to the chicken.

                    Bake or Fry the Tenders:

                      - For Baking: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the coating has turned a luscious golden brown.

                        - For Frying: Heat approximately 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.

                          Serve: Transfer the freshly cooked chicken tenders to a serving platter. For a burst of color, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious finishing touch.

                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes 4 servings

                              Enjoy your delightful crunchy cornflake chicken tenders that are sure to be a hit at any gathering!