Few things are more satisfying than biting into a piece of perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken. When coated in crunchy cornflakes and baked to crisp perfection, this dish delivers all the flavor and texture of fried chicken—without the mess of deep frying. Pair it with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

This Crispy Cornflake Chicken with Hot Honey Glaze is the perfect combination of crunchy, juicy, sweet, and spicy. It’s easy to prepare, making it great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or pair it with fresh greens for a lighter meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

What Makes Cornflake-Coated Chicken So Crispy?

Cornflakes are the secret to achieving that ultra-crispy texture without frying. While breadcrumbs and panko are common choices for breading, cornflakes offer a unique crunch that stays light and crispy even after baking. Here’s why they work so well:

• Larger flakes create more surface area, resulting in better crunch.
• They absorb less oil than traditional breading, preventing sogginess.
• Their slightly sweet flavor complements the savory chicken and spicy glaze.

For the best texture, crush the cornflakes just enough to coat the chicken but not so finely that they lose their crunch. A mix of large and small crumbs creates a great balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups cornflakes cereal, crushed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for greasing)

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
2. Prepare the Coating: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and crushed cornflakes mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a third.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly with the seasoned cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake Until Crispy: Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
5. Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar.
6. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the crispy chicken or serve on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

This Crispy Cornflake Chicken with Hot Honey Glaze combines the perfect crunch with a sweet and spicy kick, making it a deliciously irresistible meal!

The Secret Behind the Hot Honey Glaze

Hot honey has become a must-have condiment in recent years, adding the perfect sweet-heat balance to everything from pizza to fried chicken. This glaze takes it a step further by combining honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar for a well-rounded flavor that enhances every bite.

Why It Works So Well

• Honey brings natural sweetness and caramelization.
• Hot sauce adds just the right amount of kick—adjustable to your spice preference.
• Butter creates a smooth, velvety texture that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Apple cider vinegar provides a slight tang to balance the sweetness.

Drizzling the glaze over the chicken right before serving ensures the coating stays crisp while allowing the bold flavors to shine.

Serving Ideas: What Pairs Best with Crispy Cornflake Chicken?

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on the occasion.

Classic Comfort Food Pairings

• Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, mashed potatoes complement the crispy texture of the chicken.
• Buttery Corn on the Cob: A sweet, simple side that enhances the hot honey glaze.
• Mac and Cheese: The ultimate Southern comfort pairing, balancing the heat with cheesy goodness.

Lighter & Fresh Options

• Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add color and texture.
• Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, spinach, or kale with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw helps balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Chicken Sandwich: Serve the crispy chicken on a brioche bun with pickles and extra hot honey.
• Taco-Style: Chop up the chicken and serve it in tortillas with slaw and avocado.
• Chicken & Waffles: A Southern-inspired favorite—top with extra hot honey for the perfect brunch dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work just as well and often result in juicier meat. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. How do I prevent the cornflake coating from falling off?

To help the coating stick better:

• Press the cornflakes firmly onto the chicken to create a solid crust.
• Let the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help the breading adhere.
• Avoid moving the chicken too much while baking to keep the crust intact.

3. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air frying is a great alternative for an even crispier texture. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray with oil to enhance the crispiness.

4. How can I make the hot honey glaze spicier?

If you like extra heat, try:

• Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Using a spicier hot sauce, such as habanero or ghost pepper sauce.
• Increasing the hot sauce-to-honey ratio for a bolder kick.

5. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can:

• Bread the chicken and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 4 hours before cooking.
• Bake the chicken and reheat it later in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

6. Can I substitute the cornflakes with something else?

If you don’t have cornflakes, you can use:

• Panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy texture.
• Crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery crunch.
• Crushed pretzels for a salty twist.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! To make it gluten-free:

• Use gluten-free flour for dredging.
• Substitute cornflakes with a certified gluten-free cereal or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Check that your hot sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. Can I use store-bought hot honey instead of making my own glaze?

Yes! Many brands sell pre-made hot honey, which can be drizzled directly over the chicken. However, making your own allows for customized spice levels and added butteriness.

10. What’s the best way to reheat the chicken without losing crispiness?

The best method is:

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid the microwave, as it softens the crust.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Flavorful Chicken Dish Worth Making Again and Again

This Crispy Cornflake Chicken with Hot Honey Glaze is the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy. It’s a meal that satisfies every craving, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner, an exciting weeknight meal, or a fun dish for entertaining.

What makes this recipe truly special is how effortless it is to prepare, yet how impressive it looks and tastes. The cornflake coating provides unmatched crunch, while the hot honey glaze adds a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.

With so many ways to customize and serve this dish, it’s one you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and discover just how delicious homemade crispy chicken can be—without deep frying!

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