Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken – Sweet Spicy Crispy Meal

Name: Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups cornflakes; 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; Olive oil for drizzling; 1/2 cup honey; 2 1/2 tablespoons hot sauce; 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful blend of spicy, sweet, and crispy flavors that your taste buds won’t be able to resist. This dish promises to deliver satisfying crunchiness while combining honey’s sweetness with the kick of hot sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Read on to discover why you’ll want to make this delicious recipe and how easy it is to prepare!

Why Make This Recipe

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken brings a fantastic twist to traditional fried chicken by using a cornflake coating that’s both crunchy and flavorful. Not only is it a superb dish for satisfying your cravings, but it also incorporates healthier baking methods, ensuring you can enjoy a crispy treat without the guilt of deep frying. With the combination of spices, parmesan cheese, and the sweet heat of hot honey, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will impress your friends and family.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily adjust the heat level or switch up the spices according to your preference. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to master while being impressive enough to serve at any occasion. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the way to go!

How to Make Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Ready to get started? Follow these easy steps to create your very own Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken.

Ingredients:

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6 cups cornflakes
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
Olive oil for drizzling
1/2 cup honey
2 1/2 tablespoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Directions:

Prepare the chicken: Start by ensuring that the chicken tenderloins are uniform in size for even cooking. Set up two shallow dishes: one for the egg wash, which consists of the beaten eggs mixed with the hot sauce, and another for the dry coating, combining the crushed cornflakes, grated parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Coat the chicken: Dip each tenderloin into the egg wash, allowing any excess batter to drip off. Next, transfer the chicken to the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides. For an extra crunch, feel free to repeat the egg wash and cornflake coating process. Once coated, place the chicken on a plate or baking sheet.
Cook the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly drizzle a baking sheet with olive oil and arrange the chicken in a single layer. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the tops of the chicken to help it crisp up in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time, until it is cooked through and reaches a golden, crispy finish.
Make the hot honey sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce by combining honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture until smooth and allow it to gently simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Glaze and serve: Once the chicken is finished baking, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the warm hot honey sauce over the crispy chicken pieces. Gently toss everything together to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!

Pro Tips for Success with Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Uniform Chicken Pieces: Make sure all chicken tenderloins are similar in size to ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out.
Double Coating: For an extra crunch, you can double coat the chicken by repeating the egg wash and cornflake steps.
Adjusting Heat: Feel free to modify the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance. You can even swap it with mild sauce if you prefer.
Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in all the juices before coating with sauce.

Flavor Variations for Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the cornflake mixture for an aromatic addition.
Cheesy Twist: Incorporate different kinds of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the cornflake mixture for a cheesy version of this dish.
Maple-Honey Hybrid: Swap half of the honey with maple syrup for an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Caribbean Style: Mix in some jerk seasoning into your crumb coating to give it a tropical flair.

Serving Suggestions for Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:

Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw can balance the heat and add a refreshing crunch.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn with a sprinkle of lime and chili powder makes a perfect complement.
Rice: Serve your chicken over fluffy rice, whether it’s white, brown, or even fried rice.
Mac and Cheese: Indulge a little with a comforting mac and cheese on the side.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To store leftover Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to pop it back into the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|———————–|—————-|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 450mg |

FAQ About Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can certainly substitute chicken breast for tenderloins. Just make sure to cut the chicken breast into similar-sized strips to ensure even cooking.

What sauce can I use if I don’t have hot sauce?

If you don’t have hot sauce, you can use a mix of barbecue sauce and a dash of cayenne pepper to mimic the heat and flavor profile. Alternatively, a sweet chili sauce could also work for a milder option.

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The spiciness of the hot honey sauce depends on the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper you add. Start with the recommended amounts, and feel free to adjust them according to your taste. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce these ingredients or use a milder hot sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is that it is designed to be baked, which is healthier than frying. Baking allows you to achieve that crispy texture without the added calories from frying oils.

What can I use as a gluten-free alternative?

For a gluten-free version of Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure that your hot sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to leave a lasting impression. The crispy coating paired with the sweet and spicy honey sauce makes every bite a savory experience. Whether you’re making it for dinner, a potluck, or just as a treat for yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe book. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating this delicious meal!

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken