Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders (Better Than Takeout!)

Skip the deep fryer and make these Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders at home with simple ingredients and serious flavor. These golden, crispy tenders are oven-baked but taste like your favorite takeout. Kid-approved, adult-loved, and perfect for any day of the week. Pair them with your go-to dipping sauce and get ready for an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra crispy without frying
• Healthier and easy to prepare
• Great for kids and picky eaters
• Perfect for meal prep and parties
• Delicious with any dipping sauce

Simple Ingredients You Need

Meat

• 1 lb chicken tenders

Dry Ingredients & Seasonings

• 2 cups cornflakes (crushed)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs

Other

• Cooking spray or vegetable oil

How to Make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

Set up three shallow bowls:

• One with flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder
• One with beaten eggs
• One with crushed cornflakes

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender in flour, then egg, and finally coat thoroughly in crushed cornflakes. Press gently so the coating sticks.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Place breaded tenders on the prepared sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy tenders with:

• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Hot sauce
• Garlic aioli

Add them to wraps, sandwiches, or salads for a complete meal.

Tips for Maximum Crunch

• Crush cornflakes finely, but not to a powder
• Use a wire rack to elevate tenders for extra airflow
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Flip halfway for even crisping
• For extra flavor, add grated parmesan to the cornflake coating

Make-Ahead & Storage

These chicken tenders store well!

• Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven or air fryer to retain crunch.
• Freezer: Freeze before or after baking. Bake frozen tenders at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.