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Super Easy Chicken Fingers with Cornflake Crust

27 min 4 servings Easy
Chicken fingers are a beloved classic dish that’s adored by both children and adults. This version of chicken fingers is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of an air fryer, which ensures that they come out perfectly crispy every time. The secret to their irresistible crunch is a coating of crushed cornflakes, which adds both texture and a delightful flavour. Using an air fryer not only makes this recipe healthier by reducing the need for oil, but it also cuts down on the mess and hassle of traditional frying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken fingers are sure to be a hit.

Instructions

1

Prepare the chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into even strips, approximately 1.5 cm wide.

Pro tip: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.

2

Set up breading station

Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed cornflakes mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Pro tip: Crush cornflakes in a resealable bag using a rolling pin for easy cleanup.

3

Coat the chicken

Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then coat with cornflake mixture, pressing to adhere.

Pro tip: Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to keep things neat.

4

Preheat air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.

5

Cook the chicken

Place chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Pro tip: Check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be white and juicy inside.

6

Serve

Remove the chicken fingers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving with your choice of dips.

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Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispiness, preheat the air fryer.
  • Crush the cornflakes to a fine consistency for even coating.
  • Ensure chicken is patted dry for better adherence of coating.
  • Spray lightly with oil to achieve a golden brown finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook chicken fingers in air fryer?

Cook chicken fingers in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes at 200°C (400°F), flipping halfway through.

What makes these chicken fingers super easy?

They're super easy due to the quick preparation, use of an air fryer, and minimal ingredients.

Can I use something other than cornflakes?

Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as an alternative to cornflakes.

Are these chicken fingers healthy?

These chicken fingers are healthier than fried versions due to the use of an air fryer, which requires less oil.

Can I freeze cooked chicken fingers?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding extra minutes as needed.

What dips go well with chicken fingers?

Honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce are popular choices for dipping chicken fingers.

How many calories are in a serving of these chicken fingers?

Each serving of these chicken fingers contains approximately 350 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these super easy chicken fingers with your favourite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. They pair wonderfully with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. These chicken fingers can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, they can be frozen for up to 1 month and cooked directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

30g

Protein

10g

Fat

40g

Carbs