Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Simple cornflake-crusted chicken baked up on a sheet pan until crispy and delicious – loved by everyone! Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to game day gatherings. This dish stands out with its delightful crunch and the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The cornflake crust delivers an incredible crunch that everyone will enjoy.
• Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The hot honey sauce adds a unique twist, combining sweetness with just the right amount of heat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even in sandwiches — it’s great any way you choose!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty chicken recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Using the proper equipment ensures that your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or ziplock bags
• Shallow bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sauce pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps quickly crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs, ensuring an even coating on the chicken.
• Baking sheet: A non-stick or lined baking sheet allows for easy cleanup while ensuring your chicken cooks evenly.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes for easier serving.

Ingredients

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

For the Crunchy 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

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 ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Cornflake Crust

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, place the ingredients in a ziplock bag and crush them by stepping on it gently. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, beat the eggs and add hot sauce. Toss in the chicken tenderloins to coat thoroughly. Dredge each piece in the cornflake mixture until fully covered. For extra crunchiness, dip each piece back into eggs and then again into crumbs before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over all pieces.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

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

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare your 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 well until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle warm hot honey sauce over baked chicken once done cooking. Top with fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken at your next meal!

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken.
• Coleslaw: The coolness of coleslaw balances the heat from the hot honey sauce, making it a refreshing side.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad adds texture and nutrients to your plate.

As Tacos

• Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve it in warm tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fun twist.
• Crunchy Chicken Wraps: Roll the chicken in a wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a hearty meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Serve alongside creamy ranch for those who love a cooling dip.
• Spicy Mayo: A mix of mayo and sriracha adds an extra kick that complements the hot honey flavor.

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How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful than frozen options.
• Crush Cornflakes Well: Ensure your cornflakes are finely crushed for an even coating that crisps up nicely.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken while baking; you want it golden brown but not overcooked.
• Experiment with Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Serving Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can be enhanced with various delicious sides. Here are some great ideas to complement this dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the crispy chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized make for a nutritious and colorful addition.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the spicy notes of the chicken while adding sweetness to your meal.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy side is always a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with crunchy dishes.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides an excellent base to soak up any extra hot honey sauce.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the chicken, adding brightness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the coating process: It’s crucial to fully coat the chicken with the cornflake mixture. This ensures a crispy texture. Make sure each piece is well-covered for the best results.

• Not preheating the oven: Preheating your oven is essential for proper cooking. If you skip this step, your chicken may not get that perfect crunch. Always set your oven to 425° F before starting.

• Using too little hot sauce: The hot sauce adds flavor and spice to your chicken. Don’t be shy; use enough to achieve the desired heat level. Adjust based on your taste preference.

• Ignoring resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking can enhance its juiciness. This step helps keep moisture locked in, making every bite delicious.

• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dry chicken. Aim for 20-25 minutes at 425° F, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer if needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Wrap chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen chicken can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover; heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless thighs or even whole chicken breasts if preferred.

How spicy is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce and cayenne pepper you use. Adjust according to your taste!

What should I serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

This dish pairs well with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only crispy and flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adjusting the spice level or adding different herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!