Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Introduction

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both easy to prepare and sure to please the family. The Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken has become a new favorite in our household. The combination of crispy cornflake coating and the sweet-spicy glaze creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. My kids, who can be quite picky, were delighted by the crunchy texture and the hint of heat from the honey glaze. This dish has quickly won a permanent place in our dinner rotation, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

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
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for greasing)

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the crushed cornflakes mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, ensuring it’s well coated, then into the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the cornflake mixture to adhere the coating. Make sure to press down firmly so the coating sticks well.
4. Arrange the breaded chicken on the wire rack with space between each piece. This allows the hot air to circulate and ensures that the chicken gets crispy all around.
5. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
6. While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey glaze by mixing together honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and brush the hot honey glaze over each chicken breast, coating them generously.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, crispy hot honey chicken!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 360 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

To make the most of your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with creamy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Add a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Offer dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese on the side.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Cornflake Variations: For a different texture, try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips instead of cornflakes.
2. Adjusting Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the glaze or use a milder variety.
3. Marinate for Flavor: For added depth, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for an hour before breading.
4. Crispier Coating: For an even crunchier coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and cornflake process.
5. Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add minced garlic to the hot honey glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• Honey Mustard Chicken: Substitute hot sauce with mustard for a different taste profile.
• Herbed Chicken: Mix dried herbs such as oregano or thyme into the cornflake coating for added flavor.
• Buffalo Style: Toss the baked chicken in buffalo sauce instead of the hot honey glaze for a classic buffalo chicken experience.
• Air Fryer Option: Use an air fryer for a quicker cooking time and a healthier alternative, cooking for about 20 minutes at 375°F.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, consider the following sides:

• Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy side that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet crunch.
• Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy mashed potatoes can soak up the delicious glaze.
• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans provide a fresh contrast.
• Baked Potatoes: Serve with toppings like sour cream and chives.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before wrapping in foil or placing in freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook.
2. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cornflakes.
3. What can I substitute for hot sauce?
   You can use sriracha or any other favorite hot sauce, or simply reduce the amount for less heat.
4. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I bake the chicken without the glaze?
   Absolutely! The chicken is delicious on its own without the glaze.
7. What type of honey should I use?
   Any type of honey works, but raw honey offers a more robust flavor.
8. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
   Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
9. How can I make the chicken less greasy?
   Ensure you use a wire rack for baking, allowing excess oil to drip away.
10. Can leftovers be reheated in the microwave?
    Yes, but for best results and to maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. With its crispy coating and tantalizing glaze, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your home. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s a dish that will leave everyone satisfied. Enjoy this culinary creation and watch it become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine!

Print