If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic chicken that brings crunch, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia, this Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Coated in a perfectly seasoned cornflake crust that bakes up golden and crispy, each bite offers a satisfying crunch paired with juicy, tender chicken inside. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving something fun and flavorful, this recipe is simple to prepare but feels so special on the plate. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making over and over, and sharing as an absolute favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and every element plays a key role in creating that standout Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe. From the crunchy cornflakes that form the crispy coating to the Parmesan cheese that adds a savory punch, each ingredient works in harmony to deliver texture, flavor, and color you’ll love.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that stays juicy when cooked right.
- 3 cups cornflakes cereal (crushed): Provides that iconic crispy, crunchy coating that makes this recipe shine.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and helps the crust brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers subtle smoky warmth and a lovely color.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle aromatic boost to the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the seasoning with a mild tangy sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the tastes.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough kick without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Helps the cereal coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Lightens the egg wash so it’s easy to coat evenly.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: The first step in the breading process to ensure the coating adheres.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: Keeps the crust crisp and golden when baked.
How to Make Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or just lightly grease it with oil. Prepping your oven and pan ahead ensures a smooth cooking process and helps your crust stay crispy rather than soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Cereal Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture forms the star crust of your Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe, offering both crunch and a savory kick with every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash and Flour
Whisk together the eggs and milk in a separate bowl. In another bowl, place the flour. These steps create a three-part breading station to ensure a crispy, even coating that clings to the chicken.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. Dredge each piece in the flour first—this creates a dry base. Then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the cereal mixture, pressing gently so the flakes adhere well and form a sturdy crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken breasts onto your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to encourage that golden finish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the coating is a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juiciness before serving.
How to Serve Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top brighten the dish with a pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving adds a lively tang that complements the rich crust perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe with crisp green salads, roasted veggies, or creamy mashed potatoes to balance the crunchy texture and bring the meal together. Simple steamed broccoli or a vibrant coleslaw also work beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel adventurous and serve the chicken sliced over a bed of seasoned rice or nestled atop a fresh garden salad. You can even turn leftovers into a crunchy chicken sandwich with your favorite spreads and toppings, making this recipe multidimensional and fun for any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cereal crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften a bit over time, but the flavors remain just as delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, making them great for busy days when you want a quick, tasty meal.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness of your Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe after refrigeration or freezing, heat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and unappetizing.
FAQs
Can I use other cereals instead of cornflakes?
Absolutely! While cornflakes provide the classic crispy texture, you can experiment with gluten-free rice cereals or even crushed crispy rice snacks. Just keep the texture similar for the best crust.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The mild seasonings and crunchy coating make it a hit with kids. Using chicken tenders instead of breasts can make it even more kid-friendly and easier to eat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the cornflakes for gluten-free cornflakes and use a gluten-free flour blend. This way, the dish stays crunchy without any gluten.
What dipping sauces go well with this chicken?
Honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all pair wonderfully. The coating is flavorful but mild enough to let your favorite dips shine.
Why is Parmesan cheese important in the coating?
Parmesan adds savory complexity and a slight umami note. It also helps the crust brown nicely during baking, giving you that beautiful golden look and enhanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to favorite for dinner nights that call for something crispy, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying. It’s an effortlessly fun dish that feels both comforting and special, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a delicious treat all to yourself. Go ahead and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Cereal Crusted Chicken recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful baked chicken dish using crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating. Perfectly seasoned with Parmesan cheese and spices, it provides a healthier alternative to fried chicken while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a family-friendly meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups cornflakes cereal, crushed
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Breading Station
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
Finishing
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling/spraying
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry coating ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful crust mixture.
- Prepare wet and flour mixtures: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with milk until well blended. Place the all-purpose flour in a third shallow bowl for dredging.
- Prepare chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well during breading.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage. Finally, press the chicken into the cornflake mixture, coating thoroughly and pressing firmly so the crust adheres well.
- Arrange and oil: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- Bake the chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, golden, and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cornflakes and a gluten-free flour blend.
- This recipe also works well with chicken tenders for a kid-friendly option.
- Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauces.
- Using cooking spray or olive oil helps the coating crisp up without frying.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
