If you are craving a crunchy, flavorful, and utterly delightful dinner, this Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender chicken pieces coated in a golden, crispy cereal crust that adds incredible texture and wholesome flavor, making every bite a satisfying experience. Whether you bake or air fry, this easy-to-make dish brings joy to your taste buds and is perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you haven’t coated your chicken in cereal before!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe relies on everyday ingredients that come together to build a crunchy, flavorful coating while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside. Each component plays a special role—from the seasoning-packed flour to the crispy cereal that delivers a fantastic bite and beautiful golden color.
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders: The star protein that stays juicy beneath the crunchy coating.
- 4 cups cereal (cornflakes, crispy rice, or Chex), crushed: Provides the signature crunch and a slightly sweet or nutty flavor depending on the cereal.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue that helps the cereal coating stick to the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tbsp milk: Adds moisture to the egg wash for an even coating.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The first step in the triple-coat technique, helping spices adhere to the chicken.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a robust savory kick to the flour mix.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds beautiful color and subtle smoky flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances every flavor layer of the coating and chicken.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to round out the seasoning.
- Cooking spray or oil: Ensures crispness during baking or air frying without extra grease.
How to Make Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven or Air Fryer
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it if using the oven. This preparation ensures the chicken cooks evenly, and the crust crisps up perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Stations
Get ready to coat the chicken by creating three bowls: one with the seasoned flour (flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixed well), one with a whisked mixture of eggs and milk, and one with the crushed cereal. This setup helps the breading process go smoothly and allows the flavors to layer beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
If using whole chicken breasts, cut them into strips or nugget-size pieces. This size is ideal for even cooking and that irresistible crunch on every bite. Smaller pieces also make the dish great for dipping and snacking.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly
Now, the fun part! Dredge each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour to create a dry base. Then dip it into the egg wash to moisten, and finally, press it into the crushed cereal. Be sure to coat all sides well so the cereal sticks firmly, forming a beautiful, crunchy crust once cooked.
Step 5: Bake or Air Fry Until Golden and Crisp
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on your prepared sheet or air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil to encourage browning. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once. The chicken is done when golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How to Serve Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dash of paprika on top can add a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish look as amazing as it tastes. A wedge of lemon on the side can brighten the savory flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs brilliantly with crispy roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or your favorite steamed veggies. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw provide that perfect balancing touch to the crunchy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe as sliders with soft buns and slaw, or present the chicken pieces as finger food on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties and casual dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cereal crusted chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you want to freeze for longer storage, flash freeze the cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and are ready to be reheated whenever you need a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated cereal crusted chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cereal coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other cereals besides cornflakes?
Absolutely! Cornflakes are popular due to their crunch and mild flavor, but crispy rice or Chex cereals work wonderfully too, each adding a unique texture and flavor twist to the crust.
Is it possible to make this chicken gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the cereal you choose does not contain gluten. Many rice-based cereals are gluten-free and provide a similarly crispy coating.
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces for this recipe?
Bone-in pieces are possible but will require a longer cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through. For the best results and even cooking, boneless and skinless pieces are recommended.
What are some good dipping sauces for this chicken?
This Cereal Crusted Chicken pairs well with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or even a spicy chipotle mayo. The creamy or tangy contrast complements the crunchy crust beautifully.
Can I skip the flour step?
The flour step helps the seasoning stick well and creates a dry base for the egg wash to cling to, which improves the adherence of the cereal coating. Skipping it may result in less crunchy coating that falls off easily.
Final Thoughts
This delightful Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe is an absolute game changer if you’re looking to add something fun, crispy, and flavorful to your dinner table. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough for a casual gathering with friends and family. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how a simple cereal crust can transform chicken into something truly special.
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Cereal Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy and flavorful cereal-crusted chicken strips made by coating tender chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture, dipping in an egg wash, and then coating with crushed cereal before baking or air frying to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish served with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
Cereal Crust
- 4 cups cereal (e.g., cornflakes, crispy rice, or Chex), crushed
Additional
- Cooking spray or oil (for baking or air frying)
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it if baking.
- Prepare Coating Stations: In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper for the seasoned flour coating.
- Make Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Prepare Cereal Crust: Place the crushed cereal in a third bowl ready for coating.
- Cut Chicken: If using whole chicken breasts, cut them into strips or nugget-size pieces suitable for easy coating and cooking.
- Coat Chicken Pieces: First, dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken pieces into the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Apply Cereal Coating: Thoroughly coat each piece with the crushed cereal, pressing gently to make the cereal adhere well to the surface.
- Arrange for Cooking: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil to help with browning.
- Cook: If baking, cook in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using the air fryer, cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- You can substitute the cereal with your preferred crunchy cereal like corn flakes, crispy rice, or Chex for different textures and flavors.
- Using cooking spray helps achieve a crispy crust without excess oil.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- The internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures chicken is safely cooked.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices like cayenne pepper or dried thyme to the flour mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
