The Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is a perfect blend of crispy and sweet-spicy goodness. Coated with a crunchy cornflake crust and drizzled with a luscious hot honey sauce, this baked chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken without sacrificing flavor. Ideal for family dinners, game nights, or any time you’re craving something comforting and flavorful.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (~1.5 lbs)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Nonstick cooking spray

For the Flour Mixture:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons light brown sugar, firmly packed

For the Egg Mixture:

3 large eggs, whisked
2 teaspoons hot sauce

For the Breading Mixture:

5 cups crushed cornflakes
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon light brown sugar, firmly packed
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Slice chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Tenderize to 1/2-inch thickness. Optionally, cut into smaller strips.
Set Up Coating Stations:
- Place the flour mixture, whisked egg mixture, and breading mixture in separate shallow bowls.
Bread the Chicken:
- Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat thoroughly in the crushed cornflake mixture. Repeat egg and cornflake steps for any under-coated areas.
Bake the Chicken:
- Arrange breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce:
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine all sauce ingredients. Stir until butter melts, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and keep warm.
Assemble and Serve:
- Drizzle the baked chicken with the hot honey sauce. Serve warm with additional sauce for dipping, if desired.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: ~27 g
Fat: ~18 g
Carbohydrates: ~50 g
Sodium: ~780 mg

Why Baked Hot Honey Chicken Is a Winner

This recipe combines the best elements of fried chicken with the benefits of baking. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Crispy Texture Without Frying: Using crushed cornflakes as the breading ensures a satisfying crunch, while baking eliminates the need for deep frying.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sweet honey and fiery hot sauce creates a complex, addictive flavor profile.
Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content, making this dish a lighter choice without sacrificing indulgence.
Customizable Heat: You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, making it family-friendly and adaptable.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out

The Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is more than just your typical chicken dish. Here are the standout elements that set it apart:

Cornflake Coating: Crushed cornflakes provide an ultra-crispy crust that holds up beautifully to the drizzle of hot honey sauce.
Hot Honey Sauce: The sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, enhanced with butter and spices for richness.
Baking Technique: The high oven temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.
Versatile Presentation: Serve as a main dish with sides or cut into strips for a snackable appetizer.

Nutritional Benefits

While this recipe leans toward indulgence, it still offers nutritional value:

Protein-Packed: Chicken breast provides a lean source of protein, supporting muscle repair and overall health.
Lower Fat: Baking instead of frying significantly reduces the overall fat content.
Rich in Antioxidants: The hot honey sauce includes ingredients like garlic and onion powder, which are rich in antioxidants and contribute to flavor and health.
Customizable Calories: You can control the portion size and sauce drizzle to fit your dietary needs.

To make the dish even lighter, consider using a sugar-free hot sauce or reducing the amount of butter in the hot honey sauce.

Serving Suggestions

The Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

Rice or Grains: Serve over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the sauce.
Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.
Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the chicken’s richness.
Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot honey sauce for dipping.
Sliders or Wraps: Use the chicken to make sliders or wraps, adding lettuce, pickles, and a dollop of sauce for a handheld delight.

Creative Variations

This recipe serves as a great base for experimentation. Here are some creative twists to try:

Spicier Version: Add cayenne pepper to the cornflake mixture or increase the hot sauce in the honey glaze for more heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornflakes and flour to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Asian-Inspired: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the hot honey glaze, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
Buffalo Style: Replace the hot honey glaze with a classic buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy kick.
Kid-Friendly: Reduce the spice in the sauce and serve the chicken with ketchup or honey mustard for a milder option.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken

To ensure your Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Tenderize the Chicken: Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and tender bites.
Double Dip for Crunch: For an extra-crispy coating, dip the chicken in the egg mixture and cornflake mixture twice.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the chicken pieces with enough space between them to allow for even air circulation and crispiness.
Use Nonstick Spray Generously: Lightly spraying the chicken before baking helps achieve a golden crust without frying.
Monitor the Sauce: When making the hot honey sauce, don’t overheat it to preserve the balance of flavors.

Why Hot Honey Sauce is the Star

The hot honey sauce is what truly elevates this dish. Its combination of honey’s natural sweetness with the heat from hot sauce creates a dynamic flavor that enhances the crispy chicken. The addition of apple cider vinegar provides tanginess, while garlic and mustard powder add depth.

The sauce isn’t just for drizzling—it can also double as a dip, marinade, or glaze for other dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is ideal for a variety of occasions:

Family Dinners: Its quick preparation and kid-friendly appeal make it a great choice for weeknight meals.
Game-Day Parties: Serve as bite-sized strips or wings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Meal Prep: The chicken reheats well, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for lunches or dinners.
Special Occasions: Its impressive presentation and bold flavors make it suitable for casual dinner parties or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken combines the best of both worlds—comfort food indulgence and health-conscious baking. The crunchy cornflake crust and the sweet-spicy glaze make it an unforgettable dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether you’re hosting a party or feeding your family, this recipe offers an irresistible combination of flavor, texture, and versatility.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate dish for those seeking a balance of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Its golden-brown crust, juicy interior, and delectable hot honey drizzle create a meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your kitchen.

With its ease of preparation, healthier baking method, and customizable nature, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and satisfying textures. Make it today and experience why Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection!

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