Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delicious dish that combines the crunch of cornflakes with the sweet heat of honey and hot sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for something crispy and flavorful. It’s loved by both kids and adults, making it a versatile option for all occasions. The unique combination of flavors makes every bite delightful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The cornflake crust gives your chicken an irresistible crunch that everyone will adore.
- Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The blend of hot sauce and honey creates a deliciously bold flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even in a salad for a hearty meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The crunchy texture and sweet taste make it a hit with children, making meals enjoyable for the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient. Having the right equipment can elevate your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow bowl
- Sauce pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool makes crushing cornflakes quick and easy, ensuring you get fine crumbs for coating.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps evenly cook the chicken while keeping it crispy without frying.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Shallow bowl: A shallow bowl is perfect for dredging the chicken in crumbs, allowing for even coating.
Ingredients
Simple cornflake-crusted chicken baked up on a sheet pan until crispy and delicious – loved by everyone!
For the Chicken Coating
- 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten free, if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
For the Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- sea salt
For Garnish
- fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornflake Coating
In a food processor:
Combine the cornflakes, parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt.
Pulse until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, crush the cornflakes in a ziplock bag by stepping on them.
Dump the crumbs into a shallow bowl.
Step 3: Marinade the Chicken
In another bowl:
1. Beat the eggs.
2. Add hot sauce to the beaten eggs.
3. Toss in the chicken breast tenderloins to coat thoroughly.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken through the cornflake mixture:
Ensure each piece is fully covered.
For extra crunchiness, dip each piece back into the egg mixture then back into the crumbs again before placing them on the baking sheet.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 20–25 minutes until crisp all around.
Step 6: Prepare Hot Honey Sauce
While waiting on chicken:
In a saucepan over low heat:
Warm together honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, plus a pinch of sea salt until combined.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once baked:
Drizzle warm sauce over each piece of chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
Enjoy this fabulous Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heat from the chicken.
- Spinach Salad: Toss fresh spinach with nuts and a light vinaigrette for a healthy side.
On a Bed of Rice
- Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice pairs nicely with the spicy honey chicken.
- Lemon Herb Rice: Bright flavors of lemon and herbs enhance the overall dish.
In Sandwiches or Wraps
- Chicken Sandwich: Place the chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying meal.
- Wrap it Up: Use tortillas with fresh veggies and sauces for a delicious handheld option.
With Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A classic dip that adds creaminess to each bite.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix mayo with sriracha for an extra kick that complements the chicken’s flavor.
How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
To achieve the ultimate baked crunchy hot honey chicken, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Make Sure the Oven is Preheated: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Coat Generously: Don’t skimp on the cornflake coating; it creates that desired crunch.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify hot sauce and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Pairing your baked crunchy hot honey chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies roasted until tender add nutrition and flavor to your plate.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair wonderfully with spicy dishes, balancing flavors.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy classic is always a hit, offering richness alongside crispy chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings freshness and crunch to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with herbs and veggies makes for a nutritious companion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can be fun and rewarding, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Skipping this step can lead to undercooked chicken.
- Using Regular Cornflakes: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cornflakes. Regular cornflakes will not accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Avoid placing too many chicken pieces on one sheet. This can cause steaming instead of crisping. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the Double Dredge: For extra crunch, double dip the chicken in the egg and crumbs. This technique creates a thicker coating that holds up better during baking.
- Ignoring Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of chicken. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Place fully cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Be aware that it may lose its crunch.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to make the best Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. Here are some common inquiries:
What can I serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?
You can pair it with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe with different meats?
Yes! This recipe works well with chicken thighs or even fish if you prefer a different protein.
How do I customize the heat level?
Adjust the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences. You can also use milder sauces if you want less heat.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet and spicy flavor profile makes it appealing to children as well as adults.
Final Thoughts
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken offers a delightful mix of crispy texture and sweet heat. It’s versatile enough for dinner parties or family meals, and you can easily customize it with different herbs and spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked goodness!
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly marries the crunch of cornflakes with the sweet and spicy kick of honey and hot sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, game day parties, or any occasion when you crave something crispy and flavorful. With its appealing texture and bold flavors, it’s a hit among both kids and adults, making it a versatile choice for family meals or gatherings. Drizzled with a zesty hot honey sauce, this chicken delivers an unforgettable taste experience in every bite.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cornflakes
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 2–3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- sea salt
- fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse cornflakes, parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and sea salt until fine crumbs form. Transfer to a shallow bowl.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and mix in hot sauce. Coat chicken tenderloins in the egg mixture.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornflake mixture until fully covered. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- For the hot honey sauce, warm honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and sea salt together in a saucepan over low heat.
- Drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
