Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This simple cornflake-crusted chicken is baked on a sheet pan, resulting in crispy, juicy pieces that everyone will love. With its combination of sweet and spicy flavors, this recipe stands out and will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Crispy Texture: The cornflake crust creates an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice to suit your taste by varying the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners during the week.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavorful yet mild nature of this dish makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor or ziplock bag
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow bowls for dredging
- Sauce pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Quickly blends cornflakes into fine crumbs, saving you time and effort.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space to bake multiple chicken pieces evenly without overcrowding.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup after baking.
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
To Serve
- Sea salt
- Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley
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 Coating
In a food processor, combine:
– Cornflakes
– Parmesan cheese
– Smoked paprika
– Onion powder
– Garlic powder
Pulse until you achieve fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them with your foot. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In another bowl, beat together the eggs and hot sauce. Add the chicken tenderloins to this mixture, tossing well to coat each piece. Dredge each piece through the cornflake crumbs until fully covered. For extra crunch, dip them back into the egg mixture and then again into the crumbs. Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crisp all around. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165° F.
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
While chicken bakes, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warmed through.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Drizzle warm hot honey sauce over baked chicken just before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Enjoy this flavorful chicken on its own or elevate the meal with a few complementary elements.
With Fresh Herbs
- Thyme – Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme over the chicken for an aromatic touch.
- Cilantro – Add cilantro for a fresh, vibrant flavor that enhances the sweetness of the honey.
- Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bite.
With Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing – A creamy ranch dressing provides a cool contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Blue Cheese Sauce – This rich sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the chicken.
- Spicy Mayo – Mix mayonnaise with hot sauce for a zesty dipping option.
Served on a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens – Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw can add texture and balance the dish’s sweetness.
How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
To achieve the best version of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Cornflakes – Ensure your cornflakes are fresh for maximum crunchiness.
- Double Coating – For extra crispiness, dip the chicken twice in the egg and cornflake mixture.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your preference.
- Bake at High Temperature – Baking at 425° F allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with numerous side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic enhance the savory notes of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted veggies provide a healthy crunch alongside your main dish.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds brightness and balances out spicy flavors perfectly.
- Macaroni and Cheese – A cheesy, comforting side brings richness to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can offer a fresh contrast and additional nutrients.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture that compliments the chicken’s heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use salt and spices throughout the preparation process.
- Not preheating the oven: If you don’t preheat, the chicken may cook unevenly. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before starting.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many pieces of chicken on one pan can cause steaming instead of crisping. Use multiple sheets or cook in batches.
- Ignoring the second egg dip: Skipping the second dip in egg and crumbs will result in a thinner coating. For maximum crunch, double coat your chicken.
- Neglecting sauce timing: Adding sauce too early can make the chicken soggy. Drizzle the warm sauce just before serving for a perfect finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken that you might find helpful.
Can I use another type of coating instead of cornflakes?
Yes! You can substitute panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a different texture.
How spicy is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Use less hot sauce or cayenne for milder flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What goes well with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or rice dishes for a complete meal.
Is it okay to prepare ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and coat it beforehand, then bake just before serving for freshness.
Final Thoughts
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not just delicious but also versatile. Its crispy texture combined with a sweet and spicy finish makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize your spices or add different herbs to make it your own!
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is an irresistible dish that combines crispy, cornflake-coated chicken tenders with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, providing a delightful crunch that everyone will love. The unique flavor profile, with adjustable heat levels, ensures that it caters to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights. Serve this dish with fresh herbs or your favorite dipping sauces for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cornflakes
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 2–3 tablespoons hot sauce (for sauce)
- 1–3 teaspoons cayenne pepper (for sauce)
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (for sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for sauce)
- Sea salt (to serve)
- Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley (to serve)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor or ziplock bag, crush cornflakes with parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until fine crumbs form.
- In a bowl, mix beaten eggs with hot sauce. Coat chicken in the egg mixture then dredge in the cornflake crumbs. For added crunch, double coat each piece.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Meanwhile, whisk together honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder in a saucepan over low heat until warmed.
- Drizzle the hot honey sauce over baked chicken just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (85g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
