Description
This Easy Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe features tender chicken breast tenderloins coated in a crispy cornflake and parmesan crust, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a spicy-sweet hot honey sauce. A perfect balance of heat and sweetness makes it an exciting, flavorful dish that's quick and simple to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Coating
- 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten free, if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- sea salt, a pinch
Chicken and Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- sea salt, a pinch
For Serving
- fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Crumb Coating: In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, grated parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse until the mixture turns into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them thoroughly by stepping on the bag. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in 2 tablespoons of hot sauce. Add the chicken breast tenderloins and toss them well to coat evenly with the egg mixture. Dredge the coated chicken pieces through the cornflake crumb mixture, pressing to fully cover each piece. For an extra thick crust, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and then again into the crumbs. Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to promote crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the coating is crisp and the chicken is cooked through.
- Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine the honey, 2 to 3 tablespoons of hot sauce, cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt in a sauce pot. Warm the mixture gently over medium heat until it is well blended and heated through. Be careful not to boil the sauce.
- Serve: Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle the warm hot honey sauce generously over the crispy chicken pieces. Garnish with fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley for a fresh herbal note. If the sauce thickens as it cools, warm it briefly in the microwave before drizzling. Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, sweet crunch!
Notes
- Use gluten-free cornflakes if you need a gluten-free dish.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce in the honey sauce to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- For thicker crusts, double dip the chicken in egg wash and crumbs.
- Fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley enhance the flavor and add a fresh contrast.
- You can substitute chicken breast tenderloins with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
- Serve with a cooling side like coleslaw or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
