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Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a family favorite that combines crispy cornflake-coated chicken with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying crunch and a bold, flavorful kick in every bite.
Sweet Heat Chicken Magic
This recipe shines because of its balance of textures and flavors. The cornflake coating delivers a delightful crunch, while the hot honey sauce brings sweet, spicy, and smoky elements. It's a fuss-free dish that's as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a hit with family and friends.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Cornflakes: 2 cups (120g) crushed to fine crumbs (1-2mm pieces), ensuring fresh, crisp flakes for optimal crunch and golden color
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, fine texture for even coating
- Spice Blend: 1 teaspoon each premium Spanish smoked paprika, granulated onion powder, and fresh garlic powder, stored airtight for maximum potency
- Fresh Eggs: 2 large eggs (room temperature 65°F/18°C), beaten until fully combined with 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- Chicken: 1 lb (454g) chicken tenderloins, uniform size (4-5 inches long), patted completely dry
- Pure Honey: ½ cup (170g) raw, unfiltered honey for complex flavor depth
- Quality Hot Sauce: 2 tablespoons fresh, vibrant hot sauce (60ml), check heat level before using
- Ground Spices: ½ teaspoon each fresh cayenne and chipotle powder, checked for heat potency
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality for drizzling, about 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Herbs: ¼ cup mixed fresh herbs, bright green and crisp, chopped just before use
Perfect Preparation Method
- Prepare Workspace And Oven
- Position rack in center, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheet with parchment. Set up breading station with three shallow dishes. Process cornflakes to 1-2mm crumbs.
- Create Ultimate Coating Mix
- Combine cornflake crumbs with Parmesan and spices until evenly distributed. Temperature should be 65-70°F (18-21°C) for optimal adherence. Taste for seasoning balance.
- Master The Coating Process
- Pat chicken completely dry. Dip in seasoned egg wash (65°F/18°C), let excess drip off. Roll in coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Double-coat if desired, letting first layer set 5 minutes.
- Perfect The Baking Process
- Arrange chicken with 1-inch gaps on prepared sheet. Drizzle each piece with olive oil. Bake 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden brown.
- Create Signature Sauce
- Warm honey mixture in saucepan to 180°F (82°C). Add spices gradually, tasting for heat balance. Sauce should coat back of spoon and fall in ribbons.
- Final Assembly
- Rest chicken 3-5 minutes before saucing. Drizzle hot honey sauce evenly, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately while coating is at peak crispness.
Complete Your Meal
Pair this chicken with crispy sweet potato fries and a fresh winter salad for a balanced meal. The spicy sauce also complements roasted vegetables or steamed rice, creating a versatile dish suitable for any occasion.
Storage Solutions Guide
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. The hot honey sauce can be refrigerated separately and drizzled over reheated chicken for a fresh flavor boost.
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Recipe Modifications Available
This recipe is easily adaptable. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free cornflakes. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne and hot sauce. The double coat ensures a satisfying crunch every time, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or family meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce or skip the cayenne and adjust hot sauce amounts. The honey will still give great flavor without the heat.
- → Why use cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs?
Cornflakes create an extra crispy coating that stays crunchy longer than regular breadcrumbs, even when sauced.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken ahead and refrigerate. Make the sauce fresh and add just before serving for best results.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?
Yes, just adjust cooking time as thighs take longer to cook through than tenders. Use a meat thermometer for doneness.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in oven to restore crispiness, not microwave.