If there’s one recipe that combines crispy, crunchy perfection with juicy, tender chicken every time, it’s this one: Cornflake Chicken Tenders. This recipe is a family favorite that delivers all the satisfying crunch of fried chicken but baked or air-fried for a healthier twist. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or making a quick weeknight dinner, these chicken tenders are sure to become a staple. Plus, this guide has everything you need: step-by-step instructions, pro tips, a handy video tutorial, and even homemade dipping sauce recipes to elevate your meal.
Table of Contents
Why This is the Only Cornflake Chicken Recipe You’ll Ever Need
- Unbeatably Crispy: The secret to a perfect cornflake coating that stays crunchy.
- Incredibly Juicy: Marinating in buttermilk makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Healthier Than Fried: Baked or air-fried for less oil and mess.
- Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.
- Two Cooking Methods: Follow either baking or air frying instructions for best results.
Watch: How to Make Cornflake Chicken Tenders (Video)
Coming soon: A quick, step-by-step video showing exactly how to achieve the crispiest, most tender cornflake chicken tenders stay tuned!
Ingredients & Tools
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
Perfectly sized for even cooking and tender bites. - 1 cup buttermilk or kefir
Works as a marinade that tenderizes chicken and adds subtle tang. - 2 cups cornflakes, crushed (not too finely!)
Gives the crispiest texture with just the right crunch. - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Helps the coating stick and provides structure. - 2 large eggs
Acts as a glue between the flour and cornflakes. - 1 tsp smoked paprika
Adds depth with a hint of smoky warmth. - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack (to enable crisping from all sides)
- Air fryer (optional, for alternate cooking method)
- Mixing bowls
- Meat tenderizer or rolling pin (for pounding chicken if desired)
How to Make Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Marinate for Tenderness
Place chicken tenders in a bowl and pour over buttermilk or kefir. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This step breaks down proteins, resulting in ultra-juicy chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating
In a shallow dish, combine crushed cornflakes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk eggs. Place the flour in a third dish.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat evenly with the cornflake mixture. Press gently to ensure the flakes stick well.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Follow your preferred cooking method below.
Cooking Method Showdown: Baking vs. Air Frying
| Method | Temperature | Time | Result (Our Verdict) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking | 425°F (218°C) | 15-20 minutes | Crispy edges, uniformly cooked, juicy |
| Air Frying | 400°F (204°C) | 10-12 minutes | Crunchier overall, slightly faster |
Both methods achieve delicious results, but air frying delivers extra crispiness with less oil.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest, Juiciest Chicken
- Don’t Pulverize the Cornflakes: Larger flakes create more satisfying crunch.
- Pound the Chicken: Use a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to flatten tenders for even cooking.
- Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the chicken on a rack allows air to circulate, crisping all sides.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give tenders room so they crisp rather than steam.
Homemade Dipping Sauces (That Beat Store-Bought!)
2-Minute Honey Mustard Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- Mix until smooth and serve!
Creamy & Spicy Ranch Dip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Whisk together and refrigerate before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your cornflakes are gluten-free. This swap keeps the recipe accessible without sacrificing crunch.
How do I get the cornflakes to stick to the chicken?
The triple coating process (flour > egg > cornflakes) combined with marinating the chicken ensures the coating adheres well. Press the cornflakes gently onto the chicken to help them stick.
What is the best way to reheat cornflake chicken?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze cornflake chicken? (Cooked or Uncooked)
Yes! Freeze cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
What should I serve with cornflake chicken tenders?
Classic sides include French fries, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Storing & Reheating
For best results, store leftover cornflake chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until hot and crispy.
For freezing, let cooked tenders cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen using the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share your photos on Pinterest I’d love to see your creations! You can find more inspiration on my Pinterest page.
Printable Cornflake Chicken Tenders Recipe
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The Ultimate Crispy Cornflake Chicken Tenders (Baked or Air Fryer!)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy, juicy cornflake chicken tenders baked or air-fried to golden perfection. A healthier, easy, and kid-friendly recipe with tips, sauces, and more.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk or kefir
2 cups cornflakes, crushed (not too finely)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk or kefir for 20-30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) or air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
3. In separate shallow dishes, place flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned crushed cornflakes.
4. Dredge each tender in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place tenders on wire rack over baking sheet (for oven) or air fryer basket.
6. Bake 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crispy tenders, do not crush cornflakes too finely.
Pound chicken breasts to evenly thickness before marinating.
Use a wire rack to allow air circulation for the crispiest coating.
Do not overcrowd the pan or air fryer basket.
Store leftovers in airtight container and reheat in oven for best results.
Try homemade honey mustard or spicy ranch sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner, Main Dish, Chicken
- Method: Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 tenders
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
