Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect meal for a busy weeknight, offering an irresistible combination of crunch, spice, and sweetness, all in one dish. This family-friendly recipe boasts 24 grams of protein per serving, making it a nutritious and filling dinner option. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Picture a bustling weeknight in your home. The aroma of warm spices fills the air as you prepare dinner for your family. The kids are chatting about their day, and your partner is helping set the table. You want something that feels special but is quick and easy. Enter this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, which not only delights the taste buds but also brings everyone together at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Dish
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe — it’s a delightful twist that transforms everyday dinner into something special. With its crunchy coating and luscious, spicy honey drizzle, it’s sure to become a standout in your weekly meal rotation. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for families.
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten-free, if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper (to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt
- Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you have fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can place the cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin or by stepping on the bag.
- Pour the crumbs into a shallow bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Toss the chicken tenderloins in the egg mixture to coat well.
- Dredge the coated chicken through the cornflake crumbs until fully covered. For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back in the egg and again in the crumbs. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden and crispy all around.
- As the chicken cooks, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, warm together the honey, 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, cayenne, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and remember, you can warm the sauce in the microwave if it thickens up a bit.
- Drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken right before serving. Lastly, garnish with some fresh herbs for a lovely pop of color. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Your Hot Honey Chicken
Serve this dish warm, with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or crispy fries! Don’t forget to drizzle some extra hot honey sauce on the side for the spice lovers at your table.
Storing Leftover Chicken
If you happen to have leftovers (we doubt it, but just in case!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy texture or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Tips for Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- You can prepare the cornflake mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for added convenience when you’re ready to cook.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
- To make it even quicker, buy pre-cut chicken tenders from the store!
Variations to Try
- Swap out the chicken for turkey tenderloins or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder to create your own twist on the flavors.
- For a different texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chicken can be baked ahead of time, and you can store it for easy meals throughout the week.
Can I make the hot honey sauce in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just warm it up before drizzling on your chicken.
Bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table with this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. Embrace the warmth of family meals and the joy of cooking together!