Baked Hot Honey Chicken: 5 Steps to Crunchy Perfection

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Baked Hot Honey Chicken is a culinary delight that brings together the irresistible crunch of cornflakes with the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs. This recipe features a super crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the flavorful meat inside, enhanced by a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. It’s the perfect dish to impress your family at dinner or to make meal prep a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Hot Honey Chicken

There are countless reasons to adore Baked Hot Honey Chicken. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight hero. Secondly, the combination of sweet and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is also versatile; you can enjoy it as a main course or even as a part of a meal prep plan. Additionally, with a crunchy cornflake crust, it delivers a satisfying texture that kids and adults alike will love. You can even make a Spicy Honey Baked Chicken version by adjusting the hot sauce. The Honey Glazed Baked Chicken variant is equally appealing, offering a subtle sweetness. Plus, it fits perfectly into a Gluten-Free diet.

Ingredients for Baked Hot Honey Chicken

Gather these items:

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 4 cups cornflakes
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (or more to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 3/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Baked Hot Honey Chicken Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Pulse until the mixture reaches a fine, crumbly texture. Transfer this crumb mixture into a shallow bowl.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the hot sauce until thoroughly combined. Toss the chicken thighs in this egg mixture ensuring each piece is well coated.
4. Step 4: Roll each coated chicken thigh in the prepared crumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well and fully cover all sides.
5. Step 5: Place the crumb-coated chicken thighs on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken pieces to help create a golden brown, crispy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
6. Step 6: While the chicken bakes, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, garlic powder, chili flakes, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl until well combined.
7. Step 7: Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the crispy chicken and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, heat, and crunch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Hot Honey Chicken

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure that your chicken thighs are patted dry before coating them to help the crumbs stick better.
• For an added kick, adjust the amount of hot sauce in the marinade and sauce to match your taste.
• To avoid soggy coating, make sure to bake the chicken on a wire rack set over the baking sheet if possible.
• This dish can be a great Healthy Baked Honey Chicken Option if you choose skinless chicken thighs.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Hot Honey Chicken

For serving suggestions, pair your Baked Hot Honey Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious honey sauce. Consider making a Honey BBQ Baked Chicken variation by adding BBQ sauce to the honey mixture for a delightful twist.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Hot Honey Chicken

To store your leftover Baked Hot Honey Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps maintain the crunchiness. This method is great for those looking to make Baked Honey Chicken for Meal Prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Hot Honey Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Hot Honey Chicken?

The secret lies in the cornflake coating combined with the hot honey sauce. This gives a delightful crunch and a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a standout dish.

Can I make Baked Hot Honey Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in the cornflake mixture ahead of time. Just refrigerate before baking and cook when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Hot Honey Chicken?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your chicken is well-coated and do not overcrowd the baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and maximum crunch!

Variations of Baked Hot Honey Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your Baked Hot Honey Chicken. Try using different types of hot sauce for varied heat levels. You can even experiment with different seasonings like Cajun for a Sweet and Spicy Oven Chicken version or add a marinade overnight for deeper flavor. Don’t forget to try it as Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Honey for a fun appetizer!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta or Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip. If you’re looking for a healthy option, consider Healthy Baked Honey Chicken Option for a lighter twist on this dish. You can also explore Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries as a perfect side dish.

Lastly, for dessert, don’t miss out on Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake to complete your meal!

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