Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the perfect combination of textures and flavors: the crispy cornflake coating provides a satisfying crunch, while the hot honey sauce gives the chicken a sweet, spicy kick. The baked chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken, but it still delivers on flavor and crunch. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option. With a bit of spice, a hint of sweetness, and a mouthwatering crunch, this is a recipe everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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

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

• Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can place the cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them by stepping on them. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the hot sauce and mix well. Toss the chicken tenderloins in the egg mixture, making sure each piece is coated.

4. Dredge the chicken through the cornflake mixture, ensuring the coating is thick and even. For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then into the cornflake crumbs for a second time. Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.

5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

6. While the chicken is baking, make the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce is warmed through.

7. When the chicken is finished baking, drizzle the hot honey sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley. If the sauce thickens, reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to loosen it up.

8. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornflakes to make the dish completely gluten-free.

• Vegan: Substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or a plant-based protein and use vegan egg replacement for the coating.

• More Heat: Adjust the level of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the hot honey sauce to make it spicier.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs for garnish such as basil or rosemary for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to maintain the crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken, though the coating may lose some crunch.

FAQs

1. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

To make the recipe less spicy, simply reduce the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper in the hot honey sauce. You can also omit the hot sauce in the coating mixture for a milder taste.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of tenderloins. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

3. How can I make the cornflake coating even crunchier?

For an extra crunchy coating, dip the chicken in the egg mixture and the cornflake crumbs twice before baking. This will create a thicker crust that holds up better during baking.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to bake it fresh for the best crispy texture.

5. What can I serve this chicken with?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You could also serve it with rice or fries for a more indulgent meal.

6. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven to restore the crunchiness.

7. What type of honey is best for this recipe?

A mild, light-colored honey works best for this dish. However, you can use a darker honey if you prefer a stronger flavor in the sauce.

8. Can I make the hot honey sauce without cayenne pepper?

Yes, if you prefer a less spicy sauce, you can skip the cayenne pepper or substitute it with a small amount of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat.

9. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes?

Cornflakes provide a unique crunch, but you can substitute them with panko breadcrumbs if you prefer. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. The chicken stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days, and you can easily reheat it when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a deliciously easy recipe that combines the crunchiness of a cornflake coating with the irresistible heat of honey sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat, this dish brings bold flavors that are sure to please any palate. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and minimal cook time, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a flavorful, crispy chicken dinner.

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