If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crispy texture with a delightful kick of sweet heat, the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines golden, crunchy chicken coated in a buttery cornflake crust with a luscious drizzle of hot honey, offering a mouthwatering experience that feels both comforting and exciting. Easy to whip up and bursting with flavor, this baked chicken hits all the right notes, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is a breeze, and each component plays a crucial part in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the tangy buttermilk marinade that tenderizes to the crunchy cornflake coating and the sweet-spicy honey drizzle, these ingredients come together harmoniously.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juicier chicken or breasts for leaner meat, cut into strips or left whole depending on your preference.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Essential for marinating, it tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A staple seasoning to enhance the savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and complexity to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers a mild bite to balance the honey’s sweetness.
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes: The secret for that unbeatable crunch that makes this recipe shine.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds an extra light, crispy texture to the coating.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a nutty, savory richness that complements the spices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the coating crisp up beautifully while baking.
- 1/4 cup honey: The sweet base for the spicy drizzle, balancing heat and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Adjust to taste for your perfect level of kick.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds lusciousness to the hot honey sauce for an irresistible glaze.
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and prepping a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light oil coating. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken into the marinade, coating each piece thoroughly, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for even more tender, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Coating
While the chicken marinates, crush the cornflakes and combine them in a shallow bowl with panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The olive oil helps everything crisp up nicely in the oven, and the Parmesan contributes a fragrant, savory note that elevates this crunchy crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then press it firmly into the cornflake mixture to create a thick layer of crunch. Make sure each piece is well coated, as this is where all the irresistible texture comes from.
Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F is ideal). For the crispiest results, you can place the chicken on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Drizzle
While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in honey and hot sauce, whisking until smooth and gently warmed. This warm, spicy honey sauce creates a perfect harmony with the crunchy chicken.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once the chicken is baked to golden, crispy perfection, drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over each piece or offer it on the side for dipping. Get ready for a bite filled with crispy, spicy, and sweet joy!
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh flourish to your hot honey chicken by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also elevate the flavors and brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides such as a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. For heartier comfort, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are fantastic choices to soak up any leftover honey sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe atop a bed of cool coleslaw for contrast in texture and temperature. For casual gatherings, offer the chicken as finger food alongside dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing. Presentation with colorful garnishes and side options makes this dish shine on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken should be cooled to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze baked chicken pieces individually on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken retains best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To maintain crispiness, reheat the chicken on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy. Drizzle fresh hot honey sauce after reheating for maximum flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both boneless breasts and thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier, while breasts are leaner. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using thick breast pieces to ensure they’re cooked through.
How spicy is the hot honey sauce?
The sauce provides a gentle warmth that balances honey’s sweetness. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce, or by using different chili sauces or flakes based on your spice preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your cornflakes are gluten-free to keep the crunch without gluten worries.
Can I prepare the chicken coating ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix the crushed cornflakes, panko, Parmesan, and olive oil ahead and store the mixture in an airtight container for a day or two. Just coat the chicken right before baking for maximum crispiness.
What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy after baking?
Baking the chicken on a wire rack lets air circulate and prevents sogginess. Also, avoid covering the chicken while hot, as trapped steam can soften the crust.
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible texture and harmonious blend of sweet heat, the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe quickly becomes a favorite for casual dinners or special occasions. It’s a dish that truly shows how a few simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that satisfying crunch and sticky, spicy honey goodness with your loved ones!
Print
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of crispy, crunchy texture with a sweet and spicy glaze. Marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture and coated in a savory cornflake and Parmesan crust, the chicken is baked to golden perfection and finished with a luscious hot honey drizzle. Ideal for a satisfying main course that combines comfort food vibes with a tantalizing kick.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips or left whole
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged, and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Stir until the olive oil evenly coats the mixture, which will help create a crispy crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the cornflake mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when the coating is golden and a meat thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the honey and hot sauce, stirring gently until the mixture is smooth and warmed through, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the freshly baked chicken or serve it on the side for dipping, adjusting the heat level to your taste.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use a wire rack placed on the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken while baking.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce or substitute chili flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
- This recipe works great with other chicken cuts such as tenders or drumsticks.
