Crispy and crunchy: the secret to breadcrumbs with corn flakes for perfect chicken
What To Know
- You can use a food processor, blender, or simply place the corn flakes in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- After the first round of breading, repeat the process by dipping the chicken back into the egg wash and then rolling it in the crushed corn flakes.
- To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Crispy, golden-brown, and bursting with flavor – these are the hallmarks of perfectly breaded chicken. While traditional breadcrumbs are a popular choice, corn flakes offer a unique and delicious alternative that will take your chicken game to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of using corn flakes for breading chicken, from selecting the right ingredients to achieving the perfect crunch.
Choosing the Right Corn Flakes
Not all corn flakes are created equal when it comes to breading chicken. Opt for corn flakes that are lightly sweetened, as excessive sugar can burn during cooking. Avoid corn flakes with added flavors or coatings, as these can overpower the delicate taste of the chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
Before breading, it’s essential to prepare the chicken properly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can prevent the breading from adhering. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Crushing the Corn Flakes
To create a fine, crunchy breading, crush the corn flakes into small pieces. You can use a food processor, blender, or simply place the corn flakes in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin. The finer the crumbs, the crispier the breading will be.
Creating the Breading Station
Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one for the flour, one for the eggs, and one for the crushed corn flakes. Season the flour with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Dredging the Chicken
Begin by dredging the chicken in the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Next, dip the chicken into the egg wash. This will help the breading adhere to the chicken. Finally, roll the chicken in the crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to ensure good coverage.
Frying or Baking
Once breaded, the chicken is ready to be cooked. You can either fry it in hot oil or bake it in a preheated oven. For frying, heat the oil to 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit and fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. For baking, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To achieve the perfect crunch, double-bread the chicken. After the first round of breading, repeat the process by dipping the chicken back into the egg wash and then rolling it in the crushed corn flakes. This extra layer will create an even crispier crust.
Serving Suggestions
Corn flake-breaded chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.
Recommendations: Elevate Your Chicken with Corn Flakes
Using corn flakes for breading chicken is a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds. With its unique flavor and crispy texture, corn flake breading will transform your chicken into a culinary masterpiece. Embrace this technique and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Questions You May Have
1. Can I use other cereals for breading chicken?
Yes, you can use other cereals, such as rice Krispies, oatmeal, or crushed crackers. However, corn flakes provide a particularly light and crispy texture.
2. How long can I store corn flake-breaded chicken?
Once cooked, corn flake-breaded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Can I freeze corn flake-breaded chicken?
Yes, you can freeze corn flake-breaded chicken for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
