Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dish that balances the perfect crunch with a tantalizing kick of sweetness and spice, then you absolutely have to try this Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe. It’s that magical combo where crispy golden chicken meets the sticky, fiery allure of hot honey, creating a flavor experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites because it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and downright addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver incredible taste and texture. Each component has a special role, from the crispy cornflake coating to the smoky spices and that irresistibly sweet and spicy sauce.

• Cornflakes (6 cups): The secret to that extraordinary crunch; use gluten-free if necessary for a crispy, safe coating.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a depth of savory, nutty flavor to the crust.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Brings a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the overall flavor.
• Onion powder (½ tsp): Enhances the savory notes with gentle sweetness.
• Garlic powder (½ tsp): Infuses a cozy, aromatic touch into the coating.
• Large eggs, beaten (2): Helps the crumb mixture stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Hot sauce (2 tbsp + extra for sauce): Provides spicy heat and a vibrant kick.
• Chicken breast tenderloins (2 lbs): Tender, juicy, and the perfect vessel for the crunchy coating.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Drizzled before baking to ensure golden crispiness.
• Honey (½ cup): The sweet foundation for the hot honey sauce.
• Cayenne pepper (1-3 tsp): Adjust to your spice preference for fiery warmth.
• Chipotle chili powder (¾ tsp): Adds smoky, deep heat to the sauce.
• Sea salt: Balances and enhances every element of flavor.
• Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley: Vibrant herbs for a fresh, colorful finish.

How to Make Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to a hot 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This high heat ensures the chicken crisps up beautifully without drying out, while the parchment keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Crunchy Coating

Place your cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt into a food processor. Pulse these ingredients until you’re left with fine crumbs that will create an irresistible crunchy texture. Don’t worry if you don’t have a food processor; a ziplock bag and a little muscle to crush the cornflakes works just as well!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenderloins

In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the hot sauce—this creates a spicy, tangy egg wash that clings to the chicken. Toss your chicken breast tenderloins in this mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Next, dredge each tenderloin through the cornflake crumb mixture, covering them completely. For an extra-thick crust that delivers maximum crunch, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and crumb mixture a second time. Place each piece neatly on the parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle them lightly with extra virgin olive oil to promote golden crispiness during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the chicken cooks through while the coating toasts to a gorgeously crunchy and golden state. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid any burning, but trust this timing for that perfect balance of juicy interior and crunchy crust.

Step 5: Whip Up the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken bakes, it’s time to make the sauce that carries the whole dish. In a small pot, warm together honey, additional hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Gently simmer and stir until everything combines into a luscious, sticky sauce that’s bursting with complex layers of heat and sweetness.

Step 6: Serve with the Hot Honey Drizzle and Herbs

Once your chicken is baked to a crispy dream, transfer it to your serving platter and generously drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. Snip fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley and scatter them on to add a fresh burst of color and flavor that ties the whole dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley don’t just add a pop of color—they bring a brightness that perfectly contrasts the rich, spicy-sweet sauce. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving also enhances the flavors, making each bite even more addictive.

Side Dishes

This dish shines with fresh, crisp sides. Think a cool cucumber salad to refresh the palate, buttery mashed potatoes to soak up every last bit of sauce, or roasted veggies for added warmth and depth. Even simple steamed greens balance the bold flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, serve the chicken arranged in a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra hot honey sauce for dipping. Or, toss tenderloins into a crunchy salad with greens and a drizzle of sauce for an easy lunch or light dinner. The versatility of this recipe means you can get really creative with how you plate it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate until reheating helps maintain the crispy coating.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken pieces by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Freeze the hot honey sauce separately in a small container or freezer bag.

Reheating

To reheat and retain that amazing crunch, warm the chicken in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Gently reheat the sauce on the stove or microwave in short bursts. Drizzle the warm sauce over the chicken just before serving for maximum flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken cuts for this recipe?

Yes! While chicken breast tenderloins are perfect for even cooking and a tender bite, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust baking time accordingly and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Is there a substitute for cornflakes in the coating?

Absolutely. Crushed panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers can work well as an alternative. Just aim for a similar texture that crisps up nicely in the oven.

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The heat level can easily be adjusted by modifying the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper. If you prefer mild spice, start with less and add more gradually. The sauce offers a perfect balance of sweetness with a warming kick rather than overwhelming heat.

Can this recipe be made vegan or vegetarian?

This particular recipe relies on eggs and chicken, but you could experiment by substituting tofu or cauliflower for the chicken and using a flax egg or aquafaba in place of eggs for coating. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary somewhat from the original.

Why does the recipe suggest double-dipping the chicken in the crumbs?

The double dip creates an extra thick, crunchy coating that holds up well during baking and adds a fantastic texture contrast to the tender chicken inside. It’s a simple technique that really elevates the dish to the next level.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Recipe enough if you want to enjoy a meal that’s crunchy, flavorful, and bursting with warmth and sweet spice. It’s straightforward enough for any cook but special enough to wow anyone at your table. Give it a try—you’ll definitely want to make it again and again!

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