Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner. This recipe features crispy cornflake-crusted chicken, drizzled with a spicy-sweet honey sauce that will surely please everyone’s palate. It’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The cornflake crust gives each piece of chicken a satisfying crunch.
• Flavor Explosion: A blend of spices and hot sauce creates a delightful kick.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, it suits various occasions.
• Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying makes this dish lighter but still delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools for efficient cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or ziplock bag
• Shallow bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sauce pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or ziplock bag: Helps achieve fine cornflake crumbs easily for an even coating.
• Shallow bowl: Ideal for dredging the chicken in egg and crumb mixture without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to bake multiple pieces of chicken evenly.

Ingredients

Simple cornflake-crusted chicken baked up on a sheet pan until crispy and delicious – loved by everyone!

For the Crunchy 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

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins

For Drizzling and Sauce

• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• 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

How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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 achieve fine crumbs. Alternatively, place cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them by stepping on it. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken tenderloins to this mixture and toss well to coat. Dredge each piece in the cornflake crumbs until fully covered. For extra crunchiness, dip them back into the egg mixture and then again into the crumbs before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crisp all around.

Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare your sauce. In a saucepan over low heat, combine honey, additional hot sauce (to taste), cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Warm until everything is well mixed.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle warm sauce over it and garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Enjoy your delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Serving Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can elevate any meal. Whether it’s for a casual gathering or a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh spinach or mixed greens topped with warm chicken creates a delightful contrast. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for extra flavor.

Paired with Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy aioli to complement the chicken’s crunch and honey flavor.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• Create delicious wraps by placing the chicken in tortillas along with fresh veggies and your choice of sauce. It’s a fun and portable option!

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and colorful plate. The natural sweetness of the veggies pairs well with the spicy honey chicken.

As Sliders

• Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve on slider buns. Add toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a tasty finger food option.

In a Salad Bowl

• Slice the baked chicken and toss it in a salad bowl with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados for a balanced meal.

How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Perfecting your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure every bite is as delicious as possible.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavors significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried if you can.
• Ensure proper coating: For an extra crispy texture, double-dip the chicken in egg and cornflake crumbs before baking.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking. It should be golden brown.
• Prep ahead of time: Marinate the chicken in hot sauce before coating it for deeper flavor penetration.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust cayenne pepper levels according to your heat preference. Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings!
• Rest before serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before drizzling with sauce. This helps maintain its juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can elevate the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance against spicy flavors.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, making it an ideal companion to hot honey chicken.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli enhances nutrition while providing a mild taste that complements the dish.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with spicy honey.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your plate.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes and adds sweetness that balances out the heat from the chicken.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides crunch and acidity to cut through richness.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as an excellent base to soak up any extra sauce from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the Cornflake Crust: The unique crunch from cornflakes is essential. Don’t skip this step; ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated for that crispy texture.
• Using Low-Quality Hot Sauce: Not all hot sauces are created equal. Choose a flavorful sauce that complements the honey and spices for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many chicken pieces together can cause steaming rather than baking. Give them space to crisp up properly.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can affect cooking time and texture. Always ensure your oven is at 425° F before baking.
• Neglecting to Check Doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165° F internally.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350° F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast tenderloins with thighs or even turkey if you prefer.

How spicy is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Use more or less hot sauce and cayenne pepper to find your ideal heat.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free cornflakes and double-check any other ingredients used.

How do I customize the flavors?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add some zest from citrus fruits for an extra flavor kick!

Final Thoughts

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that combines crunchiness with sweet heat. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences, whether you want it spicier or milder. Try this recipe today and enjoy customizing it with your favorite flavors!