Are you craving that perfect balance of crispy, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender interior? Look no further! This incredibly easy fried chicken recipe using corn flakes delivers just that. Forget complicated breading techniques; this method is simple enough for beginner cooks yet yields restaurant-quality results. Get ready for a delicious, healthy-ish (we promise!), and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. It's one of those best recipes that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes (about 6 cups of flakes before crushing)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started: Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving extra crispy skin. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Breading the Chicken: The Cornflake Magic
- Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip each floured thigh into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat each chicken thigh thoroughly in the crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Frying the Chicken: Achieving Golden Perfection
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of cornflake dropped in sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the chicken thighs in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches is key to maintaining the oil temperature and achieving even cooking.
- Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal
Serve your crispy cornflake fried chicken immediately. This quick dinner idea pairs perfectly with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a truly indulgent meal, try serving it with some homemade biscuits.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy chicken: Double-bread the chicken by repeating steps 2 and 3 of the breading process.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different crushed cereal like Rice Krispies or crushed potato chips for unique flavor and texture.
- Bake instead of fry: For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The crispy cornflake coating adds a delightful crunch and satisfying texture, making this a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!