Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These crunchy, flavorful tenders offer an incredible taste experience that leaves you craving more. With their crispy coating and tender chicken, they are perfect for kids and adults alike. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also elevates a simple meal to something extraordinary. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a weekend gathering, these tenders will impress everyone at the table. Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked chicken tender, its outer layer crunchy and golden brown, while the chicken inside remains juicy and flavorful. Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders deliver that perfect combination of texture and taste. The great news is that you don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this amazing dish. In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making the ultimate corn flakes chicken tenders that will become a household favorite. It’s no surprise that chicken tenders are a beloved dish, but utilizing corn flakes as a coating gives them a unique twist that sets them apart from the rest. The sweet, buttery flakes create a satisfying crunch and pair beautifully with the savory chicken. In addition, this recipe is relatively quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook. Let’s explore why Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders will steal the show at your next meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders have several qualities that make them irresistible. Here are a few reasons why you’ll be excited to try this recipe:
- Crispy Texture: The corn flakes create an amazing crunch that enhances the tender chicken inside.
- Easy Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to throw together on short notice.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious meal, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
- Quick Preparation: You can have these tenders ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can serve them with various dipping sauces or sides, making each meal unique.
- Healthier Alternative: Using baked corn flakes instead of traditional breadcrumbs offers a lighter option for chicken tenders.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Getting your Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders ready is a quick process, perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the time needed:- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders is a breeze with the following steps:- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the corn flakes: In a large bowl, crush the corn flakes until they are fine. Set aside.
- Set up your stations: In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Coat the chicken: Take a chicken strip and dip it first in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Egg bath: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Corn flakes coating: Finally, roll the chicken strip in the crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all chicken pieces.
- Lightly spray or drizzle: Lightly spray or drizzle the chicken tenders with cooking spray or olive oil for added crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. You can flip them halfway for even cooking.
- Check doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How to Serve
Serving your Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders can be a fun experience, as there are numerous ways to enjoy them. Here are some tips for serving them effectively:- Presentation: Arrange the chicken tenders on a large platter for an inviting display. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for color.
- Dipping sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo to cater to different tastes.
- Side dishes: Pair the tenders with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables to create a complete meal.
- Family style: Allow everyone to grab their own tenders from the platter. This brings a casual and enjoyable dining atmosphere.
- Make it a meal: Serve them in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a chicken sandwich twist.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders result in a juicier and more flavorful dish. If frozen, thaw them properly before cooking.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the flour mixture for a personalized touch.
- Try Different Coatings: Besides corn flakes, consider using crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs for variations in texture.
Recipe Variation
Mix it up with these tasty variations of Corn Flakes Chicken Tenders:- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy version that packs a flavorful punch.
- Herbed Coating: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the crushed corn flakes for an aromatic flavor twist.
- Parmesan Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the corn flakes for an extra cheesy, savory layer.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked breaded chicken tenders. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Special Equipment
While making these chicken tenders is simple, here are some helpful tools to streamline the process:- Baking Sheet: A non-stick or lined baking sheet ensures easy removal after cooking.
- Shallow Bowls: For the flour, egg, and corn flakes mixtures, shallow bowls make coating easier.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensuring your chicken is fully cooked is easier with a thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of chicken tenders?
Chicken breasts cut into strips work perfectly for this recipe. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Can I fry the chicken tenders instead of baking them?
Absolutely! You can fry the chicken tenders in oil over medium-high heat until golden brown. This will give them a deliciously crispy exterior.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
The best method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your corn flakes are also gluten-free.
Is it possible to prepare the tenders ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken strips and coat them; keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking to save time.