Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken (Crispy Cornflake-Crusted Chicken with Sweet Heat)
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the divine delight that is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken! This recipe combines succulent chicken tenderloins with a crispy, golden cornflake crust that’s kissed with smoky paprika and a touch of Parmesan cheese. But that’s not all—it’s drizzled in a sweet and spicy honey sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, and trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a favorite!
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of crunchy, spicy, and sweet will have you reaching for another bite.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or get-togethers, this dish is guaranteed to impress guests.
– Flexible & Fast: Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it in advance for a speedy meal that tastes fresh out of the oven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to gather your ingredients for this crunchy sensation! The star of the show is the cornflakes, which give the chicken its delightful crunch. But don’t overlook the honey and hot sauce—those are the magic touch that takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
– 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
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Sea salt
– Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken lies in its versatility! Here are some creative ways to make this dish your own:
– Go Gluten-Free: Just use gluten-free cornflakes for the same crunch without the gluten.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or tofu for a hearty vegetarian twist.
– Make it Spicier: Amp up the heat with extra cayenne or a dash of your favorite spicy sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different honey varieties like lavender or wildflower for unique flavors.
– Cheese it Up: Try adding different cheeses like cheddar or feta to the crust for a cheesy surprise!
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will help with cleanup later!
Step 2: Create Crunchy Coating
In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you have a fine crumb mixture. Alternatively, you can place the cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them by stepping on the bag until they reach crumb consistency. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl.
Step 3: Beat and Coat the Chicken
In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Next, dredge each piece in the cornflake crumb mixture, covering it completely. For an extra-thick crust, dip the chicken back into the egg and then again into the crumbs.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Sweet Heat Sauce
While the chicken is baking, let’s whip up that irresistible sauce! In a saucepan, warm the honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until combined and warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, warm it in the microwave for 5 seconds.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once your chicken is out of the oven, drizzle it generously with the hot honey sauce and top with fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley. Enjoy the delightful crunch!
Pro Tips for Making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
– Keep It Crunchy: Make sure to drizzle the olive oil evenly; it helps achieve that golden crunch without drying out the chicken.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs not only brighten up the dish but also elevate the flavors.
– Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Garnishes
Top your chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies to complement the spicy-sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual portions for a fun touch, or arrange on a large platter for a family-style feast. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra hot honey over the top for presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the unbaked, coated chicken. Thaw and bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that glorious crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or thighs; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level can be adjusted according to your taste! Use less hot sauce or cayenne for a milder version.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the cornflakes with gluten-free cornflakes, and you’re all set!
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prep the chicken and coat it with the crumbs ahead of time, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—the deliciously crisp, sweet, and spicy Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is ready to win hearts and appetites alike! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a joyful way to gather around the table with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own! Happy cooking!
