Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly flavorful—this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy fried-style chicken without the mess or excess oil. With a bold combination of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become your new go-to chicken recipe for weeknights, game days, or casual entertaining. The chicken is coated with crushed cornflakes and spices for a satisfying crunch, then baked to golden perfection. What truly elevates it is the drizzle of homemade hot honey, which adds a fiery-sweet kick that balances the crispy coating beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a crowd-pleaser for guests, this dish comes together easily and delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Unlike deep-fried versions, this recipe skips the oil-laden frying process for a healthier baked method, making it ideal for those watching their fat intake but not willing to sacrifice texture or taste. The homemade hot honey is completely customizable in heat level and can be adjusted to your liking. Pair it with your favorite sides, or slice it into a sandwich or salad. However you serve it, one thing’s for sure—everyone will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken – Enjoy all the crunch without the excess oil and calories.
2. Incredible Flavor Combination – Sweet honey and spicy chili make each bite unforgettable.
3. Easy and Oven-Baked – No frying, no mess—just pop it in the oven and go.
4. Family-Friendly Yet Impressive – Loved by both kids and adults, but elegant enough for guests.
5. Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to suit your taste preferences easily.

Ingredients

• Cornflakes
• Parmesan cheese
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Eggs
• Hot sauce
• Chicken breast tenderloins
• Extra virgin olive oil

For the Hot Honey:

• Honey
• Hot sauce
• Cayenne pepper
• Chipotle chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Sea salt
• Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Air Fryer Option: Use an air fryer instead of baking for an even crispier texture.
• Different Cuts: Try using chicken thighs or drumsticks for a juicier variation.
• Mild Version: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a gentler heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free cornflakes to keep it safe for gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the parmesan cheese or replace with a dairy-free alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

Crush the cornflakes in a food processor or by hand until they resemble coarse crumbs. Mix with grated parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the hot sauce to create your dipping mixture.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg mixture, then press into the cornflake mixture until well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey

In a small saucepan, warm the honey with hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt. Stir until fully combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle the hot honey over the baked chicken just before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Crush Cornflakes Finely: For a more even and crunchy coating, ensure your cornflakes are crushed to the right texture—not powdery, but not too chunky.
• Don’t Skip the Drizzle: The hot honey adds essential flavor contrast—sweet, spicy, and rich.
• Use a Wire Rack: Place chicken on a wire rack set over the baking sheet for even crisping all around.
• Let It Rest: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to help the crust set.
• Taste-Test Your Honey: Adjust spice levels in the hot honey gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
• Slice into strips for sandwiches or wraps.
• Pair with cornbread or mac and cheese for a Southern-style meal.
• Serve over waffles for a spicy twist on chicken and waffles.
• Add to grain bowls for a protein-packed lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Freeze cooked, cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Reheating

Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to keep the crust crisp. Avoid the microwave, which can make it soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and offer a juicier result. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level is adjustable. Reduce cayenne or hot sauce for a milder version.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and refrigerate it before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.

4. What kind of hot sauce should I use?

Any brand works. For a balanced heat, try a mild vinegar-based hot sauce.

5. How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry before coating and press the cornflake mixture firmly onto each piece.

6. Can I use Panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes?

Yes, but you’ll lose some of the signature crunch cornflakes offer.

7. How long should I bake the chicken?

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. What sides go well with this chicken?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, salad, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.

9. Can I double the hot honey recipe?

Absolutely. Make more if you like it saucier or want extra for dipping.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cornflakes and confirming all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is everything you want in a comfort food dish—crispy, juicy, sweet, spicy, and completely satisfying. With a simple oven-baked method and customizable spice levels, it’s both easy to make and easy to love. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or impressing dinner guests, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Don’t forget the hot honey—it’s the star that ties everything together. Enjoy this bold and delicious twist on classic crispy chicken!

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