Crispy Ranch Cornflake Chicken
This crispy ranch chicken recipe combines juicy chicken tenders with a crispy cornflake crust. Perfect for picky eaters and those looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken. The mild ranch and chili flavors can be adjusted to taste, making it versatile for the whole family. Enjoy these with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful mealtime treat. This dish can be made with chicken fingers or boneless breasts, and is great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
3
Servings
343
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken tenders
1 lb (uncooked)
fat free ranch dressing
1/4 cup
skim milk
1/4 cup
hot sauce
1 teaspoon (to taste)
corn flake crumbs
1/2 cup
garlic powder
1 teaspoon
onion powder
1 teaspoon
chili powder
1 teaspoon
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
cayenne pepper
optional
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, skim milk, and hot sauce. Immerse the chicken tenders in the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
2
Transfer the marinated chicken to a sealable container or a zip-top bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray.
4
In a shallow dish, mix together the cornflake crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste with optional cayenne pepper for added heat.
5
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the cornflake crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure even coating.
6
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
8
Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
11g
Fat
28g
Carbs
33g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Ranch Cornflake Chicken?
It is a dish featuring juicy chicken tenders coated in a seasoned cornflake crust and baked until crispy, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthier option because it is baked rather than deep-fried and utilizes fat-free ranch dressing and skim milk.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield 3 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include chicken tenders, fat-free ranch dressing, skim milk, and cornflake crumbs.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts cut into strips or fingers for this recipe.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Whisk together the fat-free ranch dressing, skim milk, and hot sauce in a medium bowl.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should be refrigerated in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Lightly coat a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
What spices are included in the cornflake crumb mixture?
The mixture includes garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add optional cayenne pepper to the crumb mixture or increase the amount of hot sauce in the marinade.
What is the best way to coat the chicken?
Remove chicken from the marinade, let excess drip off, then dredge in the crumbs while pressing lightly to ensure even coating.
Should the chicken pieces touch on the baking sheet?
No, ensure the chicken tenders are not touching on the baking sheet to allow for even crisping.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes.
What internal temperature should the chicken reach?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 343 calories per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving provides approximately 33 grams of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is kid-friendly and great for picky eaters due to its mild ranch and crispy texture.
Can I use regular ranch dressing?
Yes, regular ranch can be used, though it will increase the fat and calorie content of the dish.
What kind of milk can I use if I don't have skim milk?
You can use any milk of your choice, including 1%, 2%, or whole milk.
Can I use whole cornflakes?
It is best to crush the cornflakes into crumbs first so that they adhere properly to the chicken.
What dipping sauces go well with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or additional ranch dressing.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, these chicken tenders are excellent for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in a sealable container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator.
How do I reheat the chicken to keep it crispy?
To maintain crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave.
What if I don't have hot sauce?
The hot sauce is used to taste; you can omit it entirely if you prefer no spice.
Can I cook this chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry these tenders, usually at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is only gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free cornflake crumbs and verify the other ingredients.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
It pairs well with roasted vegetables, a fresh side salad, or sweet potato fries.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed before marinating for the best results.