Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together crispy cornflake-crusted chicken with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual get-togethers. The unique combination of flavors and textures will impress everyone at the table, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks. With minimal steps and ingredients, you can whip it up quickly.
• Crispy Texture – The cornflake coating gives the chicken an irresistible crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it as an appetizer or a main course. It pairs well with salads, rice, or veggies.
• Flavor Explosion – The sweet honey combined with hot sauce creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by both kids and adults, this dish is bound to be a hit at your next gathering!

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor – Helps in quickly crushing the cornflakes into fine crumbs for an even coating.
• Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy surface to bake the chicken evenly without sticking.
• Shallow bowl – Ideal for dredging chicken in egg and crumb mixtures, ensuring complete coverage.

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 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 Serving

• 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 and ensure easy cleanup.

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, crush the cornflakes in a ziplock bag with your hands or by stepping on them. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

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

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy all around.

Step 5: Make the Honey Sauce

While chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small sauce pot over low heat, warm together honey, hot sauce (to taste), cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt until well mixed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done baking, drizzle warm honey sauce over each piece of chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley. If necessary, reheat any leftover sauce briefly in the microwave before serving. 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 can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, and creamy dressing complements the chicken’s crunch.
• Coleslaw – The tangy crunch of coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts beautifully with the sweet heat of the chicken.

As a Sandwich

• Chicken Sandwich – Serve the hot honey chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce and mayo for a delicious handheld meal.
• Wrap It Up – Wrap the chicken in a tortilla with avocado and spicy aioli for a quick and tasty lunch option.

On Rice or Grain Bowls

• Coconut Rice – Pairing the chicken with coconut rice offers a tropical twist that balances the spice.
• Quinoa Bowl – Serve it over a quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables for a nutritious boost.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A side of ranch dressing provides a cool contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Blue Cheese Sauce – For those who enjoy bold flavors, blue cheese sauce makes an excellent dipping option.

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How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality spices to amplify flavors.
• Get Even Coating – Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated for consistent crispiness.
• Preheat Properly – Make sure your oven is fully preheated at 425°F to achieve that perfect crunch.
• Don’t Skip the Drizzle – A light drizzle of olive oil before baking contributes to an extra crunchy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the chicken’s heat.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn smothered in butter brings a sweet touch that balances the spice.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – This cheesy classic offers richness that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken.
5. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty option that works great alongside the chicken.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and vibrant color while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection. Here are some key pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the egg wash: Not coating the chicken in the egg mixture can lead to uneven crumbs. Make sure to fully coat each tenderloin for that perfect crunchy crust.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chicken pieces on one pan can cause steaming instead of baking. Space them out for even cooking and crispiness.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at a lower temperature can result in soggy chicken. Always preheat your oven to 425° F for optimal crispiness.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale cornflakes or old spices can compromise flavor. Always check freshness before starting your recipe.
• Skipping the sauce: The hot honey sauce adds a delicious kick. Don’t skip this step, as it’s what makes this dish truly special.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet first.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375° F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other coatings instead of cornflakes?

You can certainly experiment with other coatings like panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for different textures.

How spicy is the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

The spice level can vary based on how much hot sauce and cayenne pepper you add. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What sides pair well with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with salads, roasted vegetables, or rice dishes, making it versatile for any meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The internal temperature should reach 165° F. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.

Final Thoughts

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the spice levels or experimenting with different herbs. This recipe promises satisfaction and is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to give it a go!