Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders with Hot Honey Sauce are perfect for a cozy family dinner. These tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a hit with both kids and adults. The sweet and spicy hot honey sauce adds a delightful twist, making every bite exciting. You can whip these up quickly for a weeknight meal or serve them at a gathering with friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These chicken tenders are not only delicious, but they’re also easy to make. You won’t need any fancy ingredients, just simple ones you likely already have at home. The best part is that they’re cooked in an air fryer, giving them a crispy texture without the fuss of frying. This dish is great for busy nights, and everyone in the family will enjoy it.

How to Make Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

Making these chicken tenders is straightforward. You’ll create a simple breading and cook them in an air fryer, which helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Gather your ingredients, and you’ll be ready to get started.

What You Need

1 pound chicken tenders
2 cups cornflakes, crushed
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons hot sauce (to taste)

Step-by-Step

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with buttermilk; and the third with crushed cornflakes.
Dip each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk, and finally in the cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere.
Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spraying lightly with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine honey and hot sauce over low heat, stirring until well mixed.
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken tenders before serving.

How to Serve Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are excellent on their own or paired with sides for a complete meal. Try serving them with a fresh salad, crispy fries, or a side of steamed veggies. You can also add a dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor. Ideal for parties, weeknight dinners, or game day!

How to Store Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders

To keep any leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze them, place the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer for extra crunch, or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Recipe Tips

Ensure the chicken is patted dry for a better coating.
Press the cornflakes onto the chicken for a thicker crust.
Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Experiment with different seasonings in the flour.
Taste-test the hot honey sauce to adjust spice levels to your liking.

Variations & Swaps

For a milder flavor, skip the hot sauce or use less in the honey sauce.
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for extra crunch.
Try adding spices like cumin or chili powder for a different taste.
You can also swap chicken tenders with thighs for a juicier result.
If you prefer, make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornflakes.

FAQs

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tenders and bread them beforehand. Store them in the fridge and cook them when you’re ready to serve. This helps save time during busy evenings.

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Absolutely! These tenders freeze well. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer bag. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat leftover chicken tenders?
The best way to reheat is in the air fryer. It will restore the crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5 minutes or until heated through. You can also bake them in the oven.

What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
These tenders go great with a variety of sides, like mashed potatoes, salad, or mac and cheese. You can also serve a variety of dipping sauces, like ranch or barbecue, for extra flavor.

What if my chicken tenders don’t turn out crispy?
Make sure to adequately coat your chicken in the flour and cornflake mixture, pressing it down slightly. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated before cooking for the best texture.