Indulge in the delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors with this Crispy Hot Honey Chicken recipe. Succulent chicken breasts are coated in a crunchy cornflake crust, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with a tantalizing hot honey sauce. This dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Baking the chicken instead of frying reduces oil consumption without compromising on crispiness.
- Flavorful Contrast: The sweetness of honey combined with the heat from hot sauce creates a balanced and irresistible glaze.
- Versatile Pairing: This chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 5 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, pour the beaten eggs. In a third dish, combine the crushed cornflakes, paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Press into the cornflake mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with nonstick cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over each piece before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading and the hot sauce in the glaze.
- Alternative Coatings: Substitute cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Protein Options: This recipe works well with chicken thighs or tenders.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a soggy texture.
FAQs
What is hot honey?
Hot honey is a spicy-sweet condiment made by infusing honey with chili peppers or hot sauce.
Can I make hot honey at home?
Yes, by heating honey with chili flakes or mixing honey with your favorite hot sauce.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust the heat by altering the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure the cornflakes are gluten-free.
What sides pair well with hot honey chicken?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Can I air-fry the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before breading and press the coating firmly onto the meat.
Conclusion
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken offers the perfect combination of bold flavor and satisfying crunch, making it a standout choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its easy preparation, customizable spice level, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re serving it with classic sides or incorporating it into sandwiches or salads, this dish promises to deliver both comfort and excitement in every bite.