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You won’t believe how simple it is to elevate your weeknight dinners! Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken combines the satisfying crunch of cornflakes with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, taking ordinary chicken to extraordinary heights. This recipe not only delivers a flavorful explosion in just 30 minutes but also offers a gluten-free option, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this crowd-pleaser ensures everyone leaves the table happy. Plus, the best part is that you can easily swap chicken for cauliflower if you’re feeling adventurous! Curious about how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Hot Honey Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy cornflakes and a sweet-and-spicy hot honey glaze creates a delicious contrast that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Diet-Friendly: With gluten-free cornflakes and a vegetarian cauliflower option, this dish caters to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a family meal, this hot honey chicken is bound to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or colorful winter salads for a well-rounded meal.
Hot Honey Chicken Ingredients
Discover the simple ingredients that make this dish irresistibly delicious!
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For the Crunchy Coating
• Cornflakes – Provides the crunchy coating; opt for gluten-free cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory depth to the coating; can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Smoked Paprika – Enhances flavor with a hint of smokiness; feel free to use regular paprika if needed.
• Onion Powder – Offers a mild onion flavor; swap it with garlic powder if preferred.
• Garlic Powder – Delivers additional savory flavor to the dish.
• Eggs – Binds the coating to the chicken; flax eggs serve as a great vegan substitute.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast Tenderloins – The main protein; rich, juicy thighs or cauliflower florets are tasty substitutes.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and helps crisp up the coating; avocado oil works well too.
• Hot Sauce – Provides heat and flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – Sweetens the sauce, creating a glossy finish; maple syrup can be used for a vegan version.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adjusts the heat level; feel free to omit for a milder taste.
• Chipotle Chili Powder – Adds a smoky heat to the hot honey sauce.
• Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavors; don’t skip this key ingredient!
For Garnish
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Cilantro, or Parsley) – Adds freshness and color to your beautiful dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to ensure your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken doesn’t stick. This will also help achieve a golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Prepare Crumbs
In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely crushed and well-blended, then transfer it to a shallow bowl. This crunchy coating will add an irresistible texture to your chicken, so take your time with this step.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
In another bowl, beat the eggs along with the hot sauce to create a flavorful binding mixture. Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge it in the cornflake mixture. Press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well, then drizzle a touch of olive oil over the coated chicken for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Bake Chicken
Arrange the coated chicken tenderloins on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they have space between them for even cooking. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Make Sauce
While the chicken bakes, prepare the hot honey sauce by combining honey, additional hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warmed and slightly thickened, which should take about 5–7 minutes. This sauce will bring a delightful sweetness and heat to your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is perfectly crispy and cooked through, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the warm hot honey sauce generously over the chicken, allowing it to glaze beautifully. Garnish with your choice of fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken tenderloins up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the fridge covered to keep them fresh. This prepped step not only saves time during busy weeknights but also ensures that your dish retains its delightful crunch. Additionally, you can prepare the hot honey sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; simply warm it up on the stove before drizzling over the chicken. When ready to serve, just bake the prepped chicken directly from the fridge for a quick, delicious, home-cooked meal that’s just as irresistible!
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover hot honey chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap followed by foil or place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. An air fryer is also an excellent option!
Serving Tip: When ready to enjoy your stored hot honey chicken, drizzle a fresh batch of the hot honey sauce on top to elevate the flavors again!
Hot Honey Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with these exciting variations!
- Gluten-Free: Switch to gluten-free cornflakes to keep the crunch while accommodating dietary needs.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets for a crispy, satisfying vegetarian option that everyone will love.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese into the cornflake mixture for an extra layer of flavor—who doesn’t love cheese?
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes to the hot honey sauce for an even spicier experience! This twist will excite those who crave heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano into the cornflake coating for a delightful flavor boost. Seasonal herbs can brighten this dish perfectly!
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Serve your hot honey chicken alongside baked sweet potatoes for a delicious and hearty gluten-free side option that complements its flavors beautifully.
- Crispy Chickpeas: For a fiber-packed substitution, swap chicken for roasted chickpeas, giving you that satisfying crunch and protein boost without missing a beat.
- Summer Salad: Pair with a fresh summer salad made of mixed greens and vinaigrette. The lightness marries beautifully with the richness of the hot honey chicken, creating a balanced meal.
If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my recipes for Hot Honey Chicken or Cream Cheese Chicken!
What to Serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinners by layering delicious flavors and textures alongside this crispy, sweet, and spicy chicken dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crunchy chicken, offering a comforting, classic side.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior complement the spicy hot honey glaze, providing a delightful balance of flavors.
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Winter Salad: A mix of crunchy greens, nuts, and tangy dressing adds freshness to your plate, making each bite a refreshing experience.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers enhance the meal with their caramelized flavors, creating a hearty, wholesome side.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crisp slaw offers a wonderful crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken’s coating.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn pairs perfectly as a bite-sized addition, drawing out the sweetness in both the chicken and the honey sauce.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage to cool down the heat of the chicken, making it a perfect match for your dining experience.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich dessert that melts in your mouth, leaving everyone satisfied.
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken
• Double Dredging: For an extra-crunchy coating, try double dredging the chicken. Dip it in the egg mixture, coat with cornflakes, then repeat for maximum crunch.
• Oven Preheating: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 425°F (220°C). An inaccurate temperature can lead to a soggy coating, so allow it to heat fully before baking.
• Meal Prep Magic: You can prep and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge covered, making weeknight meals a breeze!
• Spice Adjustment: Don’t be afraid to adjust the hot sauce and cayenne pepper in the hot honey sauce to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
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• Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley not only enhance flavor but add a vibrant touch to your dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious!
• Chickpea Alternative: For a gluten-free option, swap chicken for cauliflower or use chickpeas to make a delightful vegetarian twist on this hot honey chicken recipe.
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of cornflakes should I use?
I recommend using gluten-free cornflakes if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. These will still provide that satisfying crunch while accommodating dietary restrictions. Regular cornflakes work perfectly fine for everyone else, but ensure they’re fresh, without any dark spots or signs of aging!
How should I store leftover hot honey chicken?
Store your leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has completely cooled down before placing it in the container to help maintain its crispy texture.
Can I freeze hot honey chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes to restore its crunch.
What if my coating comes out soggy?
If the coating becomes soggy, it could be related to one of two main issues: not preheating the oven sufficiently, which can lead to steam instead of crispiness, or overcrowding the baking sheet. Ensure your oven reaches the right temperature, and give each piece enough space to allow the heat to circulate for even cooking.
Can I use cauliflower instead of chicken for a vegetarian version?
Yes, substituting cauliflower florets for chicken is a fantastic way to make this dish vegetarian! You can prepare the cauliflower the same way—just coat it with the egg wash and cornflake mixture. Bake until golden and crunchy, typically around 20-25 minutes, just like the chicken. Enjoy this equally satisfying twist!
Is this recipe suitable for my family with allergies?
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can be adjusted to suit various dietary needs. If someone has an egg allergy, you can use flax eggs as a substitute. For dairy-free families, swap the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast. Always check the ingredient labels of all products used to avoid allergens.
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken: A Family-Favorite Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine cornflakes, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and sea salt. Pulse until finely crushed.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and hot sauce. Dip each chicken tenderloin in the egg wash, then dredge in the cornflake mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare hot honey sauce by combining honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat.
- Remove chicken from oven, drizzle with hot honey sauce, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
