Crispy Cornflake Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that both kids and adults love. Coated in crushed cornflakes and baked or air fried to golden perfection, these chicken tenders deliver a satisfying crunch without deep frying. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual family dinners. If you’re looking for a healthier take on classic fried chicken tenders, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
These chicken tenders use straightforward ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenderloins | 3 lb (about 16 tenders) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Corn flakes (crushed) | 4 cups |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Cooking spray | As needed |
Crispy Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crispy cornflake chicken tenders baked or air fried for a crunchy family dinner.
Ingredients
3 lb chicken tenderloins
2 eggs
¼ cup milk
4 cups crushed corn flakes
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat oven or air fryer.
2. Whisk eggs and milk.
3. Coat chicken in egg wash and cornflakes.
4. Bake or air fry until crispy.
5. Rest and serve.
Notes
Use wire rack for crispiness.
Check internal temperature.
Serve with dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Oven-Baked Method
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Spray rack with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Wash
Whisk eggs and milk together in a large bowl. Add chicken tenders and coat evenly.
Step 3: Season the Cornflakes
Place crushed cornflakes in a zip-top bag with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Shake to combine.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from egg wash, let excess drip off, then coat in cornflake mixture. Press gently to help crumbs stick.
Step 5: Bake
Place chicken on wire rack and spray tops lightly with cooking spray. Bake 15–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Air Fryer Method
Preheat air fryer to 400°F and lightly grease basket. Arrange chicken in a single layer, spray tops, and air fry 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Helpful Tips
- Use a wire rack for maximum crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving
Conclusion
Crispy Cornflake Chicken Tenders are a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner that delivers big crunch with minimal effort. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fry them, these tenders come out golden, juicy, and flavorful every time. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a meal the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make cornflake chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, coat ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes, freeze after cooking and reheat until crispy.
3. What dipping sauces work best?
Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ketchup.
4. Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips.