Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders with Hot Honey

Crispy, golden, and oven-baked, these Cornflake Chicken Tenders are coated in a crunchy seasoned crust and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a quick and irresistible family-friendly dinner or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Baked, not fried for a healthier twist
• Incredibly crispy with a cornflake coating
• Sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle adds bold flavor
• Fast and easy to make in just 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• Great for parties, weeknight meals, or game day
• Customizable spice level
• Uses pantry staples
• No deep frying mess
• Delicious served hot or at room temperature

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cornflake Chicken:
6 cups cornflakes
2 teaspoons paprika, divided
1 teaspoon onion powder, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided
1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 pounds chicken tenders

For the Hot Honey Drizzle:
1/2 cup honey
2–3 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Crush cornflakes in a food processor or plastic bag until mostly fine, leaving a few chunks for texture.
3. In a shallow dish, mix half of the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt with the crushed cornflakes.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to form an egg wash.
5. Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, then coat in the seasoned cornflake mixture, pressing to adhere.
6. Place coated tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until crispy, golden, and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
8. While chicken bakes, warm honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in hot sauce, starting with 2 teaspoons and adding more if desired.
9. Remove tenders from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with hot honey or serve it on the side for dipping.
10. Garnish with reserved seasoning if desired and enjoy hot.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 365 kcal per serving

Variations

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free cornflakes.
• Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating.
• Sweet version: Mix a little brown sugar into the cornflake crumbs.
• Cheesy twist: Add grated Parmesan to the cornflake coating.
• Buttermilk brine: Soak chicken in buttermilk for extra tenderness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain crunchiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips for similar results.

How do I keep the coating crispy?

Make sure to press the coating onto the chicken and bake on a wire rack if possible.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.

Is hot honey very spicy?

The spice level is adjustable based on how much hot sauce you use.

Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, try crushed Rice Chex or panko breadcrumbs for variation.

Do I have to use eggs?

You can substitute eggs with buttermilk or a dairy-free milk alternative.

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

What sides go well with this recipe?

Serve with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the hot honey drizzle?

Absolutely! Make extra if you love the sweet and spicy combo.

Conclusion

These Baked Cornflake Chicken Tenders with Hot Honey are the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a regular on your dinner menu. Serve them with your favorite sides or as a standout appetizer everyone will love.

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