Easy & Crispy Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Strips: Your New Family Favorite Recipe
Craving ultra-crispy chicken strips but want to skip the deep-fryer mess and extra oil? Look no further! This incredible air fryer cornflake chicken strips recipe delivers an unbeatable crunch without any of the grease. Instead of traditional frying or even baking, we harness the power of the air fryer and a coating of perfectly crushed cornflakes to create golden, crispy perfection. This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, expertly cut into strips, or you can opt for convenient chicken tenders if you prefer. Each piece is meticulously dredged in seasoned flour, dipped into an egg wash, and then heavily crusted in our secret cornflake blend. The magic happens in your air fryer, transforming these tenders into perfectly cooked, ultra-crispy delights in just 10 minutes!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a healthier take on a childhood classic, these homemade air fryer chicken strips are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready for juicy, tender chicken wrapped in a satisfyingly crunchy crust that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
- What Makes This Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Recipe So Good?
- Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
- Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Cornflake Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Storage and Reheating Tips for Maximum Crispiness
- Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken
- Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken FAQs
- More Crispy Air Fryer Breaded Recipes You’ll Love
When I was growing up, these delightful bites weren’t known as chicken strips or tenders; they were simply “chicken fingers.” I vividly recall a local takeout spot near my home where my absolute favorite order was a generous plate of chicken fingers and fries. The nostalgia of that perfectly crispy, savory chicken is something I’ve cherished for years. This air fryer version, however, takes that beloved memory and elevates it, offering a much healthier, less greasy, and incredibly quick-to-prepare alternative that, dare I say, tastes even better than the takeout version I remember!
If you’re a fan of crispy breaded chicken without the heavy oil, you’re in for a treat. You’ll also love exploring other breaded air fryer delights, like this crispy air fryer breaded chicken bites recipe. They’re like homemade chicken nuggets, perfected with a golden, toasted panko bread crumb coating!
What Makes This Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Recipe So Good?
The secret to the undeniable goodness of this cornflake chicken recipe truly lies with the air fryer. While cornflake-crusted chicken has been a classic for generations, adapting it for the air fryer is an absolute game-changer, revolutionizing the way we enjoy this comfort food. Here’s why this method stands out:
- Unmatched Crispiness Without the Grease: Unlike deep frying or even pan frying, which can leave chicken feeling oily, the air fryer uses circulating hot air to achieve an incredibly crispy exterior. The cornflake coating turns perfectly golden and crunchy, creating a satisfying texture with every bite, all while using only a minimal amount of oil spray.
- Healthier Alternative: By significantly reducing the amount of oil needed, this recipe offers a much healthier option compared to traditional frying methods. You get all the flavor and crunch without the excess fat and calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Speed and Efficiency: Air frying is remarkably quick! This recipe cooks up in just 8-10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a fast and delicious meal on the table. It’s considerably faster than baking, which often requires longer preheating and cooking times.
- Easy Cleanup: Say goodbye to splattering oil and greasy pans. The air fryer basket is typically non-stick and easy to clean, making post-dinner tidying a breeze.
- Flavorful and Juicy: The rapid cooking in the air fryer seals in the chicken’s natural juices, ensuring each strip remains tender and moist on the inside, perfectly contrasting with its crispy exterior.
- Family-Friendly: Chicken strips are a universal favorite, and this healthier, extra-crispy version is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Embrace the air fryer for a cornflake chicken experience that’s not just good, but truly exceptional – healthier, faster, and incredibly delicious!
Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting the perfect crispy air fryer cornflake chicken begins with a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. Below is a detailed overview of what you’ll need and some handy substitutions to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. The full, precise quantities can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
Chicken – For this recipe, I typically use 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into about 12 uniform strips. This allows for even cooking and consistent crispiness. While chicken tenders (or chicken loins) are ideal due to their natural strip shape, they aren’t always readily available in all grocery stores. If you’re using chicken breasts, aim for strips about 1-inch thick to ensure they cook quickly and remain juicy. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, though cooking times might vary slightly. Always remember to pat your chicken dry before breading to help the coating adhere better.
Cornflakes – The star of our crispy coating! You have two excellent options here: either purchase pre-made cornflake crumbs (a great time-saver!) or easily make your own. To make your own, simply add plain cornflake cereal to a food processor and pulse until finely crushed, or place them in a sturdy resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Aim for a fine crumb consistency, similar to breadcrumbs, to ensure maximum coverage and crispiness. While cornflakes offer a unique crunch, you can experiment with panko breadcrumbs for a different kind of crisp or even a mix of both.
Seasonings – Our go-to blend includes dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. This combination creates a savory, aromatic base that complements the chicken beautifully. However, feel free to get creative with your spices! A dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick, or try Italian seasoning for a different herb profile. A pinch of black pepper is also always welcome. For a sweet and savory twist, a little brown sugar can be added to the cornflake mixture.
All-Purpose Flour – This forms the essential first layer, creating a dry surface for the egg wash to cling to, which in turn helps the cornflake coating stick. You can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-friendly version of this recipe.
Large Egg & Milk – Whisked together, these create the crucial “glue” that binds the cornflake coating to the chicken. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work, or you can even use just egg for a thicker wash.
Spray Oil – A light spritz of oil on the breaded chicken is key for achieving that golden-brown color and extra crispiness in the air fryer. Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray are excellent choices.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Cornflake Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer
Making these crispy cornflake chicken strips in your air fryer is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results every time. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, golden-brown chicken. For detailed measurements and a printable version, refer to the recipe card at the end of this post.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Maximum Crispiness
Enjoying your crispy air fryer cornflake chicken strips fresh is always best, but sometimes you have leftovers, or you might want to prepare them in advance. Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain as much of that delicious crunch as possible:
Refrigerate: Any leftover chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will remain fresh for about 3-4 days. It’s important to note that the cornflake coating, while incredibly crispy when fresh, will inevitably soften a bit in the fridge due to moisture. This is completely normal, but don’t worry – reheating properly will bring back a good amount of that desired crunch!
Freezing (Cooked): If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze cooked chicken strips. Once cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Freezing (Uncooked, Breaded): For convenient meal prep, you can bread the chicken strips and freeze them before cooking. Lay the breaded, un-oiled strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, spritz with oil and air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time (usually around 12-15 minutes total, flipping halfway).
Reheating: To restore the irresistible crispiness of your air fryer cornflake chicken strips, it’s best to avoid the microwave. Microwaving will steam the chicken, making the coating soggy. Instead, opt for these methods:
- Air Fryer (Recommended): Place the refrigerated or frozen chicken strips in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes for refrigerated strips, or 8-12 minutes for frozen, flipping halfway. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken strips on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet (this helps air circulate for crispier results). Bake for 5-8 minutes for refrigerated strips, or 10-15 minutes for frozen.
The goal is to warm them through and re-crisp the coating without drying out the chicken. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken
Achieving perfectly crispy and juicy air fryer cornflake chicken strips is easy with a few simple techniques. Here are some key tips to ensure your homemade chicken tenders turn out fantastic every time:
- Efficient Breading: While dredging each chicken strip individually in flour is effective, a clever shortcut for coating all the chicken at once is to place the sliced chicken pieces into a large resealable bag with the flour. Seal the bag tightly and shake it vigorously until all the chicken is evenly coated. This saves time and keeps your hands cleaner!
- Keep Your Hands Clean (or use Tongs!): Breading can get messy. To prevent your fingers from becoming completely caked with breading ingredients, consider using one hand for the dry ingredients (flour, cornflakes) and the other hand for the wet ingredients (egg wash). Alternatively, a pair of tongs can be your best friend for moving the chicken slices from the flour to the egg to the cornflake crumbs, ensuring a consistent coating without the sticky mess.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for optimal crispiness. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. If the basket is too full, the air cannot circulate properly, leading to steamed rather than crispy chicken. I typically use a 5.8-quart air fryer and find that I need to air fry the chicken strips in 2 batches to ensure each piece gets enough space. If you have a smaller air fryer or are cooking for fewer people, you can always halve the recipe to air fry a single, perfect batch.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately at the desired temperature, contributing to a crispier exterior and more even cooking.
- Spritz with Oil Generously (But Not Too Much!): A light, even coating of oil spray is essential for that beautiful golden color and extra crunch. Make sure both sides of the breaded chicken strips are lightly spritzed. Don’t drench them, as too much oil can lead to a soggy crust.
- Uniform Chicken Thickness: When cutting chicken breasts into strips, try to make them as uniform in thickness as possible. This ensures that all the strips cook evenly and finish at the same time, preventing some from being undercooked or overcooked.
- Press the Cornflakes Firmly: After dipping the chicken in the egg wash, really press the cornflake crumbs onto the chicken pieces. This ensures a thick, well-adhered coating that will become incredibly crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken FAQs
The most reliable way to know your air fryer cornflake chicken is done is to check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C). Visually, the coating will be a beautiful golden-brown color and feel wonderfully crispy to the touch. Cooking time generally ranges between 8-10 minutes, but this can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders or strips and the specific model of your air fryer. Always prioritize internal temperature for food safety.
These versatile crispy cornflake chicken strips are fantastic on their own as a snack, or they can be the star of a full meal. We absolutely adore them as a delicious appetizer, especially when served with a side of sweet and tangy honey mustard for dipping. For a more sophisticated pairing, this homemade marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes makes an exquisite partner to the crispy chicken. Other popular dipping options include ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They also make a great main course alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic french fries. You can even chop them up and add them to wraps or salads!
Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure you use gluten-free cornflakes (most plain cornflakes are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label) and substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but it’s always a good practice to double-check labels, especially for seasonings.
Yes, you can definitely bake these cornflake chicken strips in a traditional oven if you don’t have an air fryer or prefer to use your oven. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this helps air circulate and keeps the bottom crispy). Bake for approximately 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy. Baking takes a bit longer than air frying but still yields delicious results!
The possibilities are endless when it comes to dipping sauces for these crispy chicken strips! Our top recommendations include classic honey mustard, creamy ranch, tangy BBQ sauce, spicy buffalo sauce, a sweet and sour sauce, or even a homemade aioli. For a unique twist, try a zesty lemon-herb yogurt dip or a sweet chili sauce. Feel free to mix and match to discover your favorite combinations!
More Crispy Air Fryer Breaded Recipes You’ll Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the crispy texture and convenience of air fryer breaded recipes, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of delicious possibilities waiting for you. Here are some more of our favorite air fryer recipes that deliver amazing crunch without the excess oil:
- Crispy Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel
- Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp
- Homemade Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Patties
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bites (Nuggets)
Each of these recipes leverages the power of the air fryer to achieve restaurant-quality crispiness with less effort and less oil. Expand your air fryer repertoire and enjoy healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods!
We absolutely love hearing from you! If you make this fantastic air fryer cornflake chicken recipe, please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. Your feedback and ratings help us and other home cooks discover new favorites!
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Print Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Strips
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- Author: Leanne
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 strips
Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: American, Canadian
Description
Experience the ultimate crunch with these homemade air fryer cornflake chicken strips! Juicy chicken is coated in a savory, crispy cornflake crust and air-fried to golden perfection with minimal oil. This recipe is quick, easy, and yields tender, delicious chicken tenders that are far healthier and more satisfying than takeout versions. Perfect for a family dinner or a party appetizer!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts), cut into 12 strips
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk (any type)
- 1 cup cornflake crumbs (or 3 cups cornflakes, crushed finely)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more for seasoning chicken)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Spray oil (e.g., olive oil or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Slice your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into about 12 uniform strips. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the breading stick, then season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare three shallow bowls for your breading. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the large egg and milk until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the cornflake crumbs, dried oregano, ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
- Bread the Chicken: Take one chicken strip at a time. First, dredge it thoroughly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any surplus egg to drip back into the bowl. Finally, generously coat it in the seasoned cornflake mixture, pressing the crumbs firmly into the chicken from all sides to ensure a complete and even crust.
- Continue Breading: Repeat the breading process (flour, egg, cornflakes) for all the remaining chicken strips until they are all fully coated.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Lightly spritz both sides of the breaded chicken strips with your chosen spray oil (e.g., olive oil or avocado oil). Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. (You will likely need to cook in batches; I typically air fry 6 chicken strips at a time in my 5.8-quart air fryer).
- First Air Fry Batch: Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Carefully flip the strips over using tongs, then continue to air fry for another 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Repeat & Serve: Remove the cooked chicken strips and repeat the air frying process with any remaining breaded chicken. Serve your crispy air fryer cornflake chicken immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can easily substitute the sliced chicken breast with 12 pre-cut chicken tenders (chicken loins) for convenience.
- For an easier and less messy flour coating, place all the sliced chicken in a large resealable bag with the flour. Seal the bag and shake until the chicken is evenly coated.
- To ensure optimal crispiness and even cooking, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. I used a 5.8-quart air fryer and found it necessary to air fry the chicken in 2 batches.
- The air fryer relies on circulating hot air, so leaving space between the chicken pieces is essential for uniform cooking and achieving that desired crispiness.
- The cooking time listed (8-10 minutes) is per batch of chicken air-fried. Adjust based on your air fryer model and chicken thickness. Always check internal temperature for doneness (165°F / 74°C).