Will They Like Dinner Tonight?
WILL THEY LIKE DINNER TONIGHT? is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 530 calories per serving. Recipe by Karissa Stevens on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr
Cost: $5.91 total, $1.48 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins (trimmed, pat dry)
- 1 cup Corn Flakes (crushed into coarse crumbs)
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (for coating, seasoned with salt and pepper)
- 2 Eggs (large, beaten)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (pure grade A)
- 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (for finishing)
- 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups Water (for cooking rice)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (for rice water)
Instructions
Prepare the Rice
Rinse 1 cup of long grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add rice, 2 cups water, and ½ tsp salt to a saucepan, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Crush the Corn Flakes
Place 1 cup corn flakes in a zip‑lock bag and crush with a rolling pin until they form coarse crumbs.
Time: PT3M
Make the Coating Mix
In a shallow bowl combine the crushed corn flakes, ½ cup flour, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix well.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Egg Wash
In another shallow bowl beat 2 eggs until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender first in the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press into the corn‑flake mixture, ensuring an even coat on all sides.
Time: PT5M
Pan‑Fry the Chicken
Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, add enough oil to coat the bottom (about 2 tbsp), and fry the coated chicken tenders 4‑5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Make the Maple‑Butter Glaze
Remove excess oil from the skillet, then add 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp pure maple syrup. Stir and let simmer for 2‑3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium
Glaze the Chicken
Return the fried chicken tenders to the skillet, toss to coat evenly in the maple‑butter glaze, then transfer them to a baking sheet.
Time: PT2M
Broil for Extra Crisp
Place the baking sheet under the pre‑heated broiler for 2‑3 minutes, watching closely, until the coating is extra crisp and lightly caramelized.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Broil
Finish and Serve
Sprinkle 1 tsp flaky sea salt over the hot chicken tenders, serve alongside the fluffy rice, and enjoy.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 530
- Protein
- 30g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 20g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Contains gluten, Contains dairy
Allergens: Wheat (flour), Dairy (butter), Corn (corn flakes)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Tenderloins: Chicken breast cut into strips
- Instead of Corn Flakes: Panko breadcrumbs, crushed corn chips
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Eggs: Egg replacer, milk for dip
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, ghee
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Honey, agave nectar
- Instead of Flaky Sea Salt: Kosher salt
- Instead of Long Grain White Rice: Basmati rice, brown rice
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet
- Baking Sheet
- Broiler
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Plastic Zip‑Lock Bag (optional)
- Spatula
- Saucepan with Lid
- Tongs
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring the corn‑flake and flour coating adheres evenly to each piece of chicken.
- Pan‑frying until the coating is golden brown without burning.
- Simmering the maple‑butter glaze just enough to thicken without scorching.
- Broiling for a short time to achieve extra crispness without burning the glaze.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the coating mixture.
- Use a mix of sweet and regular corn flakes for a more complex crunch.
- After broiling, let the chicken rest 2 minutes; the glaze will set and stay glossy.
Troubleshooting
Coating falls off during frying.
Pat the chicken dry before dipping, and press the coating firmly into the meat. Let the coated pieces rest 5 minutes before frying.
Glaze becomes too thick or burns.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir continuously. Add a teaspoon of water if it thickens too quickly.
Chicken is not fully cooked inside.
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Finish cooking in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes if needed.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain crispness.
Freezer: Chicken tenders can be frozen uncooked (coated) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and cook as directed.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Coat the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to 12 hours before cooking.
- The maple‑butter glaze can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before tossing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of maple butter chicken tenders in American family cuisine?
Maple butter chicken tenders blend classic Southern comfort food—fried chicken—with the sweet, maple‑infused glaze popular in New England. The combination reflects the American tradition of adapting regional flavors into kid‑friendly meals.
What are traditional regional variations of sweet glazed chicken in the United States?
In the South, honey‑butter or peach‑glazed chicken is common, while New England often uses maple syrup. Some regions add bourbon or brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
How is maple butter chicken traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served as a main course with simple sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, and often accompanied by a fresh salad or coleslaw for contrast.
What occasions or celebrations is maple butter chicken tenders associated with in American culture?
This dish is popular for casual family dinners, weekend gatherings, and kid‑focused birthday parties because it is quick, tasty, and visually appealing with its glossy glaze and crunchy coating.
What authentic ingredients are essential for an authentic maple butter chicken tender recipe versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include real maple syrup, unsalted butter, and corn‑flake crumbs. Acceptable substitutes are honey or agave for the syrup, melted margarine for butter, and panko breadcrumbs instead of corn flakes.
What other American side dishes pair well with maple butter chicken tenders?
Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered corn on the cob, roasted green beans, or a simple rice pilaf (as in this recipe) complement the sweet‑savory flavor of the chicken.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making maple butter chicken tenders at home?
Common errors include using too much oil, which makes the coating soggy; not seasoning the coating mixture; and over‑broiling, which can burn the maple glaze. Follow the critical steps for coating, frying, and broiling to prevent these issues.
Why does this recipe use a corn‑flake and flour coating instead of plain flour or breadcrumbs?
The combination of corn‑flake crumbs and flour creates a lighter, crunchier texture while still adhering well to the chicken. Pure corn flakes can leave gaps, and plain flour alone doesn’t provide enough crunch.
Can I make maple butter chicken tenders ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can coat the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to 12 hours. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet to retain crispness.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the maple butter glaze is ready?
The glaze should be glossy, slightly thickened, and coat the back of a spoon. It will become a thin caramel layer that clings to the chicken without pooling.
What does the YouTube channel Karissa Stevens specialize in?
Karissa Stevens focuses on quick, family‑friendly meals that balance comfort flavors with simple techniques, often featuring kid‑approved twists on classic dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Karissa Stevens' approach to American comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Karissa Stevens emphasizes minimal prep, pantry staples, and playful presentations that appeal to children, whereas many other channels may focus on gourmet techniques or elaborate plating.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
