Delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken: Quick & Easy Recipe

Dinner time was always exciting in my kitchen. I loved trying new recipes with my family. Baked crunchy hot honey chicken was my go-to dish. It made simple weeknights feel special.

This hot honey chicken recipe is more than just chicken. It’s a mix of crispy, sweet, and spicy that’s irresistible. Imagine chicken coated in cornflakes with a hot honey glaze that everyone loves.

This dish is easy to make and quick, ready in just 40 minutes. It’s healthier than fried chicken and full of flavor. It’s time to change up your dinner plans!

Key Takeaways

• Quick and easy recipe ready in 40 minutes
• Healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken
• Perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
• Crispy cornflake coating guarantees delicious texture
• Family-friendly meal that impresses every time

Why This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Is a Game-Changer

I’ve found the ultimate hot honey baked chicken recipe. It turns simple dinner into a special treat. This recipe is more than just chicken; it’s a new way to cook at home that’s both tasty and healthy.

This recipe is special because it’s full of flavor and good for you. We skipped deep-frying to make a dish that’s crunchy but not oily. Now, you can enjoy a tasty chicken dish without feeling guilty.

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Heat

The flavors in this recipe are amazing. The hot honey sauce mixes sweet and spicy perfectly. Every bite is:

• A hint of honey sweetness
• A touch of balanced heat
• A crispy outside with soft chicken inside

Healthier Than Deep-Fried Alternatives

Our baked hot honey chicken shows you can eat healthy and still enjoy great taste. Baking instead of frying cuts down on calories but keeps the crunch. The light cornflake coating adds texture without the extra fat.

Family-Friendly Meal Option

This recipe is loved by both kids and adults. Its delicious taste and health benefits make it ideal for busy families. It’s a quick, tasty meal that everyone will enjoy.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Crispy Coating

Creating the ultimate crispy hot honey bangin crunchy cornflake baked chicken starts with the right ingredients. Cornflakes are the star. They give an unbeatable crunch that turns regular chicken into a crispy delight.

Delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken: Quick & Easy Recipe

Need a flavor kick? This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken delivers crispy chicken drenched in sweet heat—perfect for spicing up weeknight dinners!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Southern-Inspired

Servings 4

Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls – For marinating the chicken and coating the breadcrumbs.
• Shallow Dish – For the crunchy coating mixture.
• Baking Sheet – To hold the chicken while baking.
• Wire Rack – To ensure even baking and crispiness.
• Small Saucepan – For making the hot honey sauce.
• Tongs  – For handling the chicken.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
• Basting Brush (Optional) – For glazing the chicken with hot honey.

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce like Frank’s Red Hot

For the Crunchy Coating:

• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup cornflakes crushed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra crunch

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ⅓ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon butter optional, for richness

For Garnish & Serving:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges optional

Instructions

 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
• Add the chicken and coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Coating

• In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
• Coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure even coating.
• Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet for maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

• Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray (to help it crisp up).
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

• In a small saucepan, heat honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and butter over low heat until combined.

Step 6: Glaze & Serve

• Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the crispy baked chicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~500 kcal
• Protein: ~40g
• Carbohydrates: ~55g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugar: ~12g
• Fat: ~12g
  • Saturated Fat: ~4g
• Sodium: ~750mg
• Potassium: ~600mg

💡 For a lighter version, use whole wheat panko and air fry instead of baking.

Keyword Baked chicken, Crispy oven-baked chicken, Healthy fried chicken alternative, Hot honey chicken, Spicy honey glaze, Sweet and spicy chicken

Let’s look at the key ingredients for our crispy hot honey chicken coating:

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes (120g), ground to fine 1-2mm crumbs
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
• 1 teaspoon each of Spanish smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne powder for extra kick

The secret to a restaurant-quality crunch is in the details. I crush the cornflakes into uniform, fine crumbs for a golden, crispy exterior. The Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly exceptional.

My spice blend is carefully crafted to match the hot honey glaze. Smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder create a complex yet irresistible flavor. The cayenne adds a subtle heat that builds excitement with every bite.

The Secret Behind the Hot Honey Sauce

To make a great mikes hot honey chicken recipe, you need to get the hot honey sauce right. This sauce turns a simple hot honey crispy chicken recipe into a dish that excites your taste buds.

The key to a top-notch hot honey sauce is in its ingredients. These ingredients mix sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors perfectly. Let’s explore what makes this sauce so special.

Selecting the Right Honey

Choosing the right honey is crucial. I suggest using:

• Raw, unfiltered honey for deeper flavor
• Local wildflower honey for complexity
• Pure, high-quality honey varieties

Spice Blend Components

The secret to a fantastic hot honey sauce is the right spice mix. Here’s my favorite blend:

Balancing Flavors

Creating the perfect hot honey sauce is all about balance. Begin with ½ cup honey and add spices slowly. Keep tasting and adjust the heat and sweetness to your liking.

Pro tip: For a milder sauce, use less chili flakes or a milder hot sauce. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making the perfect honey baked chicken needs careful prep and detail. I’ll show you a simple way to get a crispy, tasty dish every time.

First, let’s get our ingredients ready for this tasty hot honey chicken recipe. You’ll need:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 3 cups panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• 6 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup honey
• ½ tablespoon red pepper flakes

Getting that restaurant-quality crunch is all about prep. Set up three breading stations:

1. First station: Seasoned flour mixture
2. Second station: Whisked eggs
3. Third station: Crushed cornflake and parmesan mixture

Crush the cornflakes finely but keep some bits for crunch. Coat each chicken piece well: flour, egg, then cornflake mix.

Pro tip: Press the cornflake mix onto the chicken for even coating. This makes the breading stick and gives that crunchy outside we love.

Prep takes about 30 minutes, and cooking is 20 minutes. You’ll get a dish that serves 4 and has 648 calories of yummy goodness.

Mastering the Double-Coating Technique

Creating the perfect crunchy baked chicken is all about the double-coating technique. This method turns regular chicken into a crunchy hot honey chicken dish that will impress your family and friends.

The secret to a crispy exterior is in the breading layers. I’ll show you the best way to double-coat for maximum crunch in every bite.

Proper Dredging Method

To get the perfect coating, follow these steps:

• Start with dry chicken patted completely moisture-free
• Create three distinct stations for dredging:
  1. Seasoned flour
  2. Beaten eggs
  3. Panko breadcrumbs
• Shake off excess coating between each station

Creating the Ultimate Crunch

The double-coating technique is a game-changer for crunchy baked chicken. By repeating the dredging process, you’ll get a thick, crispy exterior. This locks in moisture and gives incredible texture.

Tips for Even Coating

Here are some tips for perfect crunchy hot honey chicken:

• Use your fingers to press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken
• Allow each coating layer to rest for 5 minutes before the next dip
• Use a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms during baking

Mastering the double-coating technique will turn ordinary chicken into a crispy, golden masterpiece. Everyone will be asking for seconds!

Baking Instructions and Temperature Tips

Learning how to cook cornflake chicken in the oven is key. It helps you get a crispy outside and a juicy inside. I’m here to share my top tips for baking success.

To figure out how long to bake chicken, it’s simple. Just preheat your oven to 425°F and bake for 20-25 minutes. This temperature and time combo is perfect for a golden crust and tender meat.

• Preheat oven to 425°F
• Line baking sheet with parchment paper
• Arrange chicken pieces with space between them
• Bake for 20-25 minutes

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. It should hit 165°F for safety. This method takes the guesswork out, ensuring your chicken is always juicy and tasty.

Pro tip: For an extra crispy coating, put chicken on a wire rack in the baking sheet. This lets hot air get all around the chicken, making it crunchy like deep-fried food.

How to Achieve Restaurant-Style Crispiness

Crispy chicken can be tricky, but I’ll share my top techniques to transform your baked chicken from soggy to spectacular. If you’re wondering why is my baked chicken not crispy, the secret lies in preparation and technique.

The trick to getting crispy chicken starts with moisture control. Patting chicken breasts completely dry before breading removes excess water that prevents crispiness. Use paper towels to absorb surface moisture thoroughly.

Cornflake Crushing Technique

For ultimate crunch, crush cornflakes into fine, uniform crumbs. I recommend these steps:

• Place cornflakes in a sealed plastic bag
• Use a rolling pin to crush into consistent small pieces
• Aim for breadcrumb-like texture
• Avoid large chunks that prevent even coating

Moisture Control Methods

Controlling moisture is crucial for crispy results. Use a wire rack during baking to allow air circulation around the chicken, preventing soggy bottoms.

Timing and Temperature Control

Achieving restaurant-style crispiness requires precise temperature management. Bake at 425°F for 20-30 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to create a golden, crispy exterior.

By following these techniques, you’ll transform your baked chicken into a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece that rivals any restaurant dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Hot honey chicken is amazing because you can serve it in many ways. My recipe for half baked harvest baked crunchy hot honey chicken is a hit. It offers several tasty ways to enjoy this dish.

Pairing the right foods can make your hot honey chicken even better. Here are some great ideas:

• Dipping Sauces:
  • Classic Ranch Dressing – creamy and herby
  • Homemade Honey Mustard
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo
• Side Dish Options:
  • Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
  • Fresh Coleslaw
  • Roasted Garlic Broccoli

For a fancy touch, serve your hot honey chicken on homemade waffles. This turns the dish into a gourmet treat. It will wow your family and friends.

Pro tip: The cornflake coating adds a fantastic crunch. It goes great with creamy sauces. Add extra hot honey for a flavor boost that will excite your taste buds!

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Learning how to store and reheat your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is key. It helps you enjoy its tasty flavors and crispy texture for more than one meal. Knowing when chicken is done baking is important for safe storage and reheating.

Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Proper Storage Methods

• Cool chicken completely before storing
• Use airtight containers or sealed plastic bags
• Separate pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking
• Label container with date of storage

Reheating Techniques

To make the chicken crispy again, try these reheating methods:

1. Oven Method: Preheat to 375°F, place chicken on a wire rack, bake 10-12 minutes
2. Air Fryer Method: Heat at 370°F for 4-6 minutes, turning halfway
3. Microwave Method: Best for quick heating, but may reduce crispiness

Always check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F when reheating. This ensures it’s safe to eat.

Storage Nutrition Breakdown

By following these tips, your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken will always taste fresh and delicious!

Conclusion

Learning to cook crusted chicken is super fun! This hot honey chicken recipe is a mix of crispy and sweet flavors. With just 2 pounds of chicken and a few ingredients, you can make a meal that’s out of this world.

I’ve shared the secrets to the perfect coating. You’ll need 1 cup of flour and 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs. The process involves precise dredging, seasoning with garlic powder and paprika, and baking at the right temperature. Your kitchen will smell amazing, promising a tasty meal.

Looking for more fun recipes? Try Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken Pizza or Baked Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls. This recipe is great for family dinners, game nights, or impressing friends with your cooking skills.

Don’t be shy to try new things and make this recipe your own. Whether you’re new to cooking or have been doing it for years, this hot honey chicken will be a favorite. Enjoy every crispy, honey-glazed bite!