Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game day gatherings. This unique recipe combines the crunch of cornflake crust with the sweet heat of honey and hot sauce, making it irresistible. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also delivers fantastic flavors that appeal to everyone. Serve this delightful chicken as an appetizer or main course, and watch it disappear in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – The cornflake crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with tender chicken.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of hot honey and spices creates a sweet and spicy flavor profile that’s truly addictive.
• Easy Preparation – With simple steps and minimal cleanup using a sheet pan, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it as a main dish, in wraps, or on top of salads for a delicious twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser – This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowl
• Sauce pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor – Ideal for quickly turning cornflakes into fine crumbs for coating the chicken.
• Baking sheet – Provides ample space for even cooking while keeping your oven clean with parchment paper.
• Shallow bowl – Perfect for dredging the chicken through the egg mixture and cornflake crumbs without mess.

Ingredients

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

For the 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
• 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 prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb 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, crush the cornflakes in a ziplock bag by stepping on them. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this mixture until fully coated. Dredge each piece through the cornflake crumbs until entirely covered. For an extra crispy texture, dip each piece back into the egg mixture followed by another coating of crumbs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp all around.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare your hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until warmed through.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is done cooking, drizzle it generously with warm hot honey sauce. Top with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before enjoying!

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a versatile dish that shines in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions can elevate your dining experience.

Plate It Up

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with thyme, cilantro, or parsley for added flavor and color.
• Drizzle Extra Sauce: Serve with a side of the warm hot honey sauce for dipping.

Pair with Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad can balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and pairs well with hot honey flavors.

Add Some Grains

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad complements the dish’s crunchiness.

Make It a Wrap

• Wrap it Up: Use tortillas to create delicious chicken wraps with fresh veggies and sauce.

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How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To ensure your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
• Preheat Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back in egg and crumbs before baking.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Rest After Baking: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender add color and nutrients.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the dish’s flavors and is easy to prepare.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food that adds creaminess alongside crispy chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the heat from the hot honey sauce.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons offer a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the Cornflake Prep: Failing to crush the cornflakes finely can lead to uneven coating. Make sure they are ground well for the best crunch.
• Not Preheating the Oven: If you don’t preheat your oven, your chicken may cook unevenly. Always preheat for optimal results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces on one baking sheet can cause them to steam instead of crisping up. Bake in batches if needed.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
• Skipping the Double Dredge: For extra crunch, dip your chicken back in the eggs and then in the crumbs again. This creates a thicker, crispy coating.
• Not Drizzling with Oil: Forgetting to drizzle olive oil can result in dry chicken. A little oil helps achieve that perfect golden brown.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes for crispy results.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken:

What is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delicious dish made with cornflake-crusted chicken drizzled with a spicy honey sauce. It’s crispy, sweet, and savory!

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast tenderloins with thighs or even whole chicken pieces, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

How spicy is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce and cayenne you add. You can easily adjust these ingredients to suit your taste preference.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure any sauces you use are also gluten-free for this tasty dish.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can coat the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it later. Just remember to add extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by varying the spices or adding your favorite herbs. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!