Name: Cornflake Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons melted butter; 5 cups cornflakes; 1 ½ teaspoons dried parsley; ½ teaspoon thyme; 1 large egg; 1 cup milk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Cornflake Chicken is a crispy, oven-baked twist on a classic comfort food. Instead of deep frying, this recipe uses crushed cornflakes as a crunchy coating that bakes to golden perfection—giving you all the crispiness you crave without the mess or excess oil. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will love.

Cornflake Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super crispy texture: Cornflakes deliver a golden, satisfying crunch with every bite.
No frying required: Baked in the oven, this dish is lighter and easier to clean up.
Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
Kid-approved: Familiar flavors and a fun crunch make this perfect for all ages.
Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings to suit your taste or add your own twist.

Ingredients

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

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons melted butter
5 cups cornflakes
1½ teaspoons dried parsley
½ teaspoon thyme
1 large egg
1 cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the cornflake coating:
Crush the cornflakes in a large plastic bag using a rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor. Add parsley and thyme, then shake or stir to combine.
Make the wet batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper to make a smooth batter.
Season the chicken:
Lightly season each chicken breast with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Coat the chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg-flour mixture, coating it completely. Then press it into the cornflake crumbs, making sure both sides are well coated. You can do this in a dish or shake in the bag for easy cleanup.
Bake:
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the chicken for extra crispiness and flavor.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the cornflake coating.
Cheesy crust: Mix grated Parmesan into the cornflakes for added flavor.
Herb blend: Use Italian seasoning instead of parsley and thyme for a different twist.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cornflakes and a gluten-free flour alternative.
Chicken tenders: Cut chicken into strips for bite-sized, kid-friendly portions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well. Just adjust the baking time as needed depending on thickness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the coated chicken and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before baking. Bake fresh for best results.

How do I get the coating extra crispy?

Make sure to drizzle melted butter over the top before baking and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use flavored cornflakes?

Plain cornflakes are best, but lightly sweetened ones can be used if you prefer a hint of sweetness.

What sides go well with cornflake chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, green beans, or a simple salad all pair nicely.

Can I freeze this?

Yes, freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cook time.

Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?

No flipping is necessary, but you can if you want an even color on both sides.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through, depending on your air fryer model.

What can I use instead of butter?

Olive oil or a light cooking spray can be used to help crisp the coating, though butter adds the most flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The crunchy coating and mild seasoning make it a favorite among kids.

Conclusion

Cornflake Chicken is a deliciously crunchy, oven-baked dinner that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With minimal prep and ingredients you already have on hand, it’s a no-fuss, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it disappear from the plate!

Jessica