There is something about crispy chicken tenders that just hits every time. That first crunch. The juicy center. The way you immediately reach for another one without even thinking. But let’s be honest most of the time they’re either deep-fried, greasy or leave you feeling way too heavy after ward. That’s exactly why these corn flake crusted air fryer chicken tenders are different. They give you that loud, golden crunch you crave, but they’re lighter, packed with protein and made right in your air fryer with simple ingredients you probably already have. No complicated steps. No weird substitutions. Just real, satisfying food that feels indulgent but fits into real life. Once you make them this way, it’s honestly hard to go back.
If you’ve ever tried making chicken tenders at home and ended up with soggy coating or dry chicken, you’re not alone. Getting that deep-fried level crunch without actually deep frying can feel impossible but this method changes everything. The crushed cornflakes create a thick, textured coating that turns beautifully golden in the air fryer, while the inside stays juicy and tender. No greasy mess. No heavy breading. Just real crunch you can actually hear when you bite into it.
And if you already loved my classic Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, this version takes that same easy method and levels it up with even more texture and crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra crispy without using breadcrumbs
- Made in the air fryer no deep frying needed
- High protein and lighter than takeout
- Ready in about 15 minutes
- Perfect for dipping, salads, wraps, or meal prep
These are especially good dipped into my creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce if you want something lighter, or paired with the bold, slightly spicy Beef Cone Sauce if you’re craving something with more kick. And if you’re building a full comfort-style dinner, serve them alongside my ultra crispy Potato Long Fries that combo never disappoints.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 1½ lbs | Pat dry before breading |
| Cornflakes (crushed) | 2 cups | Crush finely but keep texture |
| Large eggs | 2 | Whisked |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | Base coating layer |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds savory depth |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | For color and mild warmth |
| Salt | ¾ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Cooking spray | As needed | Light spray for extra crispiness |
Instructions :
Prep the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl and pat them dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a crispier coating later.
Add the Seasoning
Sprinkle the salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and bouillon directly over the chicken. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed before mixing.
Toss and Marinate
Use clean hands or tongs to gently toss the chicken until every piece is fully coated. Let it sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors soak in.
Coat with Cornflakes
Press each seasoned tender firmly into the crushed cornflakes, making sure all sides are covered. Lightly spray the outside with cooking spray to help it turn golden and crisp in the air fryer and Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching so the air can circulate properly. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray, then air fry at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking so both sides turn evenly golden and crisp. They are ready when the outside is deeply crunchy and the inside is fully cooked and juicy.
Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Results
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. The tenders need space so hot air can circulate properly. If they are too close together, the coating will steam instead of crisp. Lightly spray the tops before cooking to help the corn flake crust turn golden. Flip them halfway through so both sides crisp evenly. If you enjoyed my Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, this version gives you an even thicker crunch.
What to Serve With These
These pair perfectly with something creamy or crispy on the side. Try them with my Garlic Yogurt Sauce for a lighter dip, or the bold Beef Cone Sauce if you want more kick. For a full comfort-style meal, serve them alongside my crispy Potato Long Fries. And if you love cheesy flavors, my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are another delicious option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes until hot and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy.
Food Safety Note
Always ensure your air fryer reaches the proper temperature before cooking. Pizza cones should be cooked until the cheese is fully melted and the tortillas are golden and crisp. If using meat toppings such as ground beef or sausage, make sure they are fully cooked before filling the cones. For general food safety guidelines, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?
Yes. Slice boneless skinless chicken breast into even strips so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes. Bake at 425°F on a wire rack for best airflow until golden and fully cooked. The texture will be slightly lighter but still crispy.
How do I keep the coating extra crispy?
Do not overcrowd the basket and lightly spray the tops before cooking. Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after air frying so the crust sets properly.
Can I make these gluten free?
Use certified gluten free cornflakes and substitute the flour with a gluten free alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Cornflake Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ultra crispy cornflake crusted chicken tenders made in the air fryer. Golden on the outside, juicy inside, and perfect for dipping.
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Pat the chicken tenders dry and place them in a bowl.
- Add the seasonings and toss until evenly coated. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Dredge each tender in flour, dip in egg, then press firmly into crushed cornflakes.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray the tops.
- Air fry at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and fully cooked.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Do not overcrowd the basket for maximum crispiness. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fat | 2.5g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making crispy chicken tenders at home and getting them just right. That golden crunch, the juicy center, the way they disappear from the plate almost instantly. These corn flake crusted air fryer chicken tenders prove that comfort food can be simple, lighter, and still full of flavor. If you try this recipe, I’d truly love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you keep it classic or add your own twist?
Recipe Disclaimer
This recipe is provided for informational purposes only. Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your air fryer model and kitchen equipment. Always use your best judgment when preparing food and ensure ingredients are cooked safely. Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the exact products used. For full details, please review our full disclaimer policy .
Krish Shrestha
I’m Krish Shrestha, the creator of Krivia Recipes. I share practical, ingredient-focused recipes made with simple ingredients and clear step-by-step instructions designed for real kitchens and everyday home cooking.
