Cornflake chicken is a popular dish that has been a staple in many households for decades. The combination of crunchy cornflakes and juicy chicken is a match made in heaven, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook cornflake chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
What is Cornflake Chicken?
Cornflake chicken is a type of breaded and fried chicken dish that uses cornflakes as the main coating ingredient. The cornflakes are crushed into fine crumbs and mixed with spices and herbs, then used to coat chicken pieces before frying. The result is a crispy and flavorful exterior that complements the juicy chicken perfectly.
The Benefits of Using Cornflakes
Using cornflakes as a coating ingredient has several benefits. Here are a few:
- Crispy texture: Cornflakes provide a crunchy texture that’s hard to achieve with traditional breadcrumbs.
- Easy to make: Crushing cornflakes into crumbs is a simple process that requires minimal effort.
- Cost-effective: Cornflakes are a cheap ingredient that’s widely available in most supermarkets.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make cornflake chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup cornflakes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- A large bowl
- A plate or tray
- A frying pan or deep fryer
Preparing the Cornflake Crumbs
To prepare the cornflake crumbs, follow these steps:
- Place the cornflakes in a large bowl.
- Use a rolling pin or a food processor to crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs.
- Sift the crumbs through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or large pieces.
Preparing the Chicken
To prepare the chicken, follow these steps:
- Cut the chicken into desired pieces (e.g., tenders, nuggets, or breasts).
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
- Dip the chicken pieces in the buttermilk, making sure they’re fully coated.
- Roll the chicken pieces in the flour, shaking off any excess.
The Cooking Process
Now that you have your cornflake crumbs and chicken pieces ready, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook cornflake chicken:
Dredging the Chicken in Cornflake Crumbs
- Dip the floured chicken pieces in the beaten eggs, making sure they’re fully coated.
- Roll the egg-coated chicken pieces in the cornflake crumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
- Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
Frying the Chicken
- Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is hot, add a few pieces of the coated chicken to the pan (do not overcrowd).
- Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken pieces.
Baking the Chicken (Optional)
If you prefer to bake the chicken instead of frying it, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle a little bit of oil over the chicken pieces.
- Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden brown.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best cornflake chicken ever:
- Use different seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to give your cornflake chicken a unique flavor.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the cornflake crumbs for an extra kick.
- Try different types of cornflakes
: Experiment with different types of cornflakes, such as frosted flakes or cinnamon toast crunch, to give your chicken a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cornflake chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With mashed potatoes and gravy: A classic comfort food combination that’s hard to beat.
- With coleslaw and biscuits: A Southern-style combination that’s perfect for a summer picnic.
- As a sandwich: Place the cornflake chicken on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
Conclusion
Cornflake chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make cornflake chicken that’s crispy, flavorful, and fun to eat. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the crunchy goodness of cornflake chicken!
What is Cornflake Chicken and How Does it Taste?
Cornflake chicken is a popular dish that involves coating chicken pieces in a mixture of crushed cornflakes, spices, and herbs, and then deep-frying them until crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior and a juicy interior, with a flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. The cornflakes add a satisfying texture to the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
The taste of cornflake chicken is often described as a combination of the richness of fried chicken and the crunch of a breakfast cereal. The cornflakes absorb some of the flavors of the spices and herbs, which are then released as you take a bite. The dish is often served with a side of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
What are the Ingredients Needed to Make Cornflake Chicken?
To make cornflake chicken, you will need a few basic ingredients, including chicken pieces (such as breasts, thighs, or drumsticks), cornflakes, eggs, flour, and spices. You will also need some oil for frying, as well as any desired dipping sauces. The specific ingredients and their quantities may vary depending on the recipe you are using, but these are the basic components of the dish.
In addition to the main ingredients, you may also want to have some optional ingredients on hand, such as chopped herbs or grated cheese, to add extra flavor to the dish. Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients, such as breadcrumbs or panko, to help the cornflakes stick to the chicken.
How Do I Crush the Cornflakes for the Coating?
To crush the cornflakes for the coating, you can use a few different methods. One option is to place the cornflakes in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or your hands. This will help to break down the cornflakes into smaller pieces that will stick to the chicken more easily. Another option is to use a food processor or blender to crush the cornflakes into a fine crumb.
It’s generally best to aim for a medium-coarse texture when crushing the cornflakes. If the pieces are too fine, they may not provide enough texture to the dish, while pieces that are too large may not stick to the chicken as well. You can adjust the texture to your liking by crushing the cornflakes for a longer or shorter amount of time.
Can I Bake the Cornflake Chicken Instead of Frying It?
Yes, it is possible to bake the cornflake chicken instead of frying it. This can be a healthier option, as it eliminates the need for a large amount of oil. To bake the chicken, simply preheat your oven to a medium-high temperature (around 400°F) and place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the chicken will result in a slightly different texture than frying, as the cornflakes may not be as crispy. However, the dish can still be very flavorful and satisfying. You can also try broiling the chicken for a few minutes at the end of the baking time to give it a crisper exterior.
How Do I Get the Cornflakes to Stick to the Chicken?
To get the cornflakes to stick to the chicken, you will need to use a combination of eggs and flour to create a sticky surface. First, dip the chicken pieces in the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated. Then, roll the chicken pieces in the flour to create a dry surface. Finally, dip the chicken pieces in the crushed cornflakes, pressing the cornflakes onto the chicken to help them stick.
It’s also important to make sure the chicken is dry before coating it with the cornflakes. If the chicken is too moist, the cornflakes may not stick as well. You can try patting the chicken dry with a paper towel before coating it to help the cornflakes adhere.
Can I Make Cornflake Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, it is possible to make cornflake chicken ahead of time, although the results may be slightly different than if you were to make it fresh. One option is to prepare the coated chicken pieces and refrigerate or freeze them until you are ready to cook them. This can be a convenient option if you want to make the dish in advance, but keep in mind that the cornflakes may not be as crispy when you cook them.
Another option is to cook the chicken ahead of time and then reheat it when you are ready to serve. This can be a good option if you want to make the dish in advance, but keep in mind that the chicken may not be as juicy when you reheat it. You can try reheating the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop to help restore its crispiness.
What are Some Variations on the Cornflake Chicken Recipe?
There are many variations on the cornflake chicken recipe that you can try to give the dish your own unique flavor. One option is to add different spices or herbs to the cornflake mixture, such as paprika or thyme. You can also try using different types of cereal, such as rice krispies or oats, to create a different texture.
Another option is to add some grated cheese or chopped nuts to the cornflake mixture for extra flavor. You can also try using different types of chicken, such as chicken tenders or chicken wings, to create a different shape and texture. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and come up with your own unique variation on the recipe.