Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Get ready for a flavor-packed, crispy delight with this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken! Tender chicken tenderloins, coated in a crunchy cornflake crust and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, create a mouthwatering meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients

• Cornflakes: Provides the signature crunchy coating, use gluten-free for dietary needs.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy depth to the crust.
• Smoked Paprika: Offers a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
• Onion Powder: Enhances the savory notes of the crust.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
• Large Eggs: Acts as a binder, helping the crust adhere to the chicken.
• Hot Sauce: Adds a kick of heat to the chicken and egg mixture.
• Chicken Breast Tenderloins: The tender and juicy protein base.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For drizzling, adding richness and promoting browning.
• Honey: The sweet base of the hot honey sauce.
• Cayenne Pepper: Intensifies the heat in the sauce.
• Chipotle Chili Powder: Adds a smoky, earthy spice to the sauce.
• Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Fresh Thyme, Cilantro, or Parsley: For garnish, adding freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a food processor, pulse cornflakes, parmesan, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, crush the cornflakes in a ziplock bag.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Beat the eggs in a bowl, add hot sauce, and toss in the chicken to coat. Dredge the chicken in the cornflake crumbs, pressing to adhere. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and crumb coating. Place on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

Just before the chicken is done, warm honey, hot sauce, cayenne, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a saucepan.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the warm hot honey sauce over the baked chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs.

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Appetizer: Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
• Main Course: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
• Tacos or Wraps: Slice the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Can I air fry the chicken?

Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from thickening too much?

If the sauce thickens, warm it for a few seconds in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or honey.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

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