Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Dive Into Deliciousness with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
I can’t help but get excited every time I whip up a batch of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s an experience! The sweet-heat combination from the hot honey glaze, the crispy cornflake coating, and the tenderness of chicken come together to create a meal that’s unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping something special for a gathering, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while sprucing it up with a modern flair.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. For starters, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. The crunchiness of the cornflakes provides a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken, while the hot honey sauce adds a delicious twist that makes this dish stand out.
Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is also budget-friendly and can be prepped in under an hour! Not to mention, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken since it’s baked, not fried.
“I tried this recipe last Sunday, and my family couldn’t get enough! The honey sauce is delightful, and the crunch is addicting!”—A Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Getting started with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is straightforward. First, you’ll create a flavorful coating for the chicken, then bake it until crispy and golden. While the chicken is baking, whip up a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce that takes it over the top. With these concise steps, you’ll have a sumptuous dinner ready in no time.
Gather These Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking, let’s prepare your shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- 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 (for sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for sauce)
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley (for serving)
Feel free to swap ingredients based on availability or dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, you could leave out the parmesan, and for a little extra heat, add more cayenne!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s bring this crunchy, flavorful chicken to life:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you achieve fine crumbs. If you don’t have a processor, simply crush the cornflakes in a ziplock bag by stepping on them. Pour the crumbs into a shallow bowl.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Dredge each chicken piece through the cornflake mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. For a thicker crust, dip it back into the egg and then again into the crumbs. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat until warm.
- Just before serving, drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken and top with fresh herbs. If the sauce thickens, warm it up for a few seconds in the microwave. Enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, the options are limitless! You can plate it simply on a bed of fluffy rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a nutritious twist. Want to take it to the next level? Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the heat and crunch. Drizzle a bit more of that hot honey sauce on top for extra flavor, and watch your guests light up!
How to Store & Freeze Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly is key! Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so in an oven or air fryer to maintain that crispy texture!
For longer-term storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.
Extra Advice for Success
- Egg Dipping: For the ultimate crunch, ensure that each piece of chicken is well coated in egg before the cornflakes. This helps the crumbs stick better.
- Hot Sauce Variations: Experiment with different types of hot sauce to find your perfect spice level. From sriracha to a smoky chipotle sauce, the options are endless!
- Quality Control: Make sure you use high-quality honey for the sauce; it truly makes a difference in flavor!
Recipe Variations to Try
There are endless variations you can make to this recipe. For a healthier twist, consider using crushed almonds instead of cornflakes for a nutty flavor. Alternatively, mix in some lime zest and cilantro into the honey sauce for a zesty kick! You could even add different spices, like curry powder or Italian herbs, to the coating for unique spins.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prep?
About 15 minutes! Once you have everything laid out, the assembly is super quick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and coating in advance, then bake just before you’re ready to serve.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cornflakes and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free (like hot sauce).
Enjoy your cooking experience, and savor every crunchy bite of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you achieve fine crumbs.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Dredge each chicken piece through the cornflake mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. For a thicker crust, dip it back into the egg and then again into the crumbs.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat until warm.
- Just before serving, drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken and top with fresh herbs. If the sauce thickens, warm it up for a few seconds in the microwave.
