What To Know
- Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the corn flake mixture for a spicy twist.
- While corn flakes are often associated with a sugary breakfast cereal, they can also be a nutritious addition to your diet when used as a breading.
- When ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or for several hours at room temperature before frying.
Craving crispy, golden-brown chicken that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than corn flakes! This versatile cereal not only adds a satisfying crunch to your chicken but also infuses it with a subtle sweetness. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the art of using corn flakes for breading chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken breasts or thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
Step 2: Create the Breading Station
In one shallow dish, combine the corn flakes, flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the corn flake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Enjoy Your Crispy Corn Flake Chicken!
Variations and Tips:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the corn flake mixture for a spicy twist.
- Savory Herbs: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the corn flake mixture for extra flavor.
- Buttermilk Marinade: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for several hours or overnight before breading for extra tenderness.
- Double-Breading: For an even crispier crust, double-dip the chicken in the egg wash and corn flake mixture.
- Air Fryer Method: If you have an air fryer, you can air fry the corn flake-breaded chicken for a healthier alternative. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.
Health Benefits of Corn Flakes
While corn flakes are often associated with a sugary breakfast cereal, they can also be a nutritious addition to your diet when used as a breading. Corn flakes are a good source of:
- Fiber: Helps promote digestive health and regularity.
- Vitamins: Contains vitamins B1, B2, and niacin.
- Minerals: Rich in iron, magnesium, and zinc.
Wrap-Up:
Using corn flakes for breading chicken is an easy and delicious way to elevate your favorite poultry dish. The crunchy corn flake coating adds a satisfying texture and subtle sweetness that will impress your taste buds. Whether you prefer spicy, savory, or classic flavors, this versatile breading technique has something to offer everyone. So, next time you’re looking for a crispy and flavorful chicken recipe, give corn flake breading a try.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I use other cereals for breading chicken?
Yes, you can use other cereals like Rice Krispies, crushed crackers, or breadcrumbs. However, corn flakes provide a unique combination of crunch and sweetness.
2. How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
3. Can I freeze corn flake-breaded chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 hours. Transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or for several hours at room temperature before frying.
