Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

If you’re ready for the boldest, crispiest, and most utterly irresistible chicken, you’re in for a treat with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a golden, impossibly crunchy crust, then drizzled in sticky, spicy-sweet hot honey that wakes up your taste buds in the best way. Every bite is a whirlwind of flavors and textures that proves a weeknight dinner can be both effortless and spectacular. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress at your next gathering, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken will quickly become a new favorite.

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with just a handful of super simple ingredients, each playing a starring role in creating that perfect harmony of crispy texture and sweet-heat flavor. Don’t skip or substitute—the magic is in how each one shows up on your plate!

  • Cornflakes: The secret to a wildly crunchy coating that stays crisp, even after the hot honey drizzle.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami, depth, and just the right touch of saltiness to the crust.
  • Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smokiness that enhances both aroma and color.
  • Onion Powder: Offers gentle savory depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
  • Garlic Powder: Because chicken and garlic are always a good match—trust me!
  • Large Eggs: These help the flavorful coating stick to every nook and cranny of your chicken.
  • Hot Sauce: Bread both the chicken and flavor the honey; choose your favorite brand for maximum impact.
  • Chicken Breast Tenderloins: So tender, so juicy—these bake up beautifully every time.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle ensures your crust turns out golden and perfectly crispy.
  • Honey: The foundation of that sweet, sticky, crave-worthy drizzle everyone loves.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the kick to your liking—start small, taste, and crank it up if you’re feeling spicy.
  • Chipotle Chili Powder: Adds smoky heat that balances the honey’s sweetness.
  • Sea Salt: Just a pinch brings all the flavors to life.
  • Fresh Thyme, Cilantro, or Parsley: A fresh, herby finish that doubles as a gorgeous garnish.

How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Before you do anything else, get your oven preheating to a piping-hot 425° F. This is the trick for crispiness—don’t be tempted to lower the temp! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to guarantee nothing sticks while baking.

Step 2: Crush the Crunchy Coating

Toss your cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt into a food processor. Pulse until you have a fine, sandy crumb that’s deeply golden in color and rich with flavor. No processor? No problem! Pour everything into a ziplock bag and crush away (stepping on the bag is oddly satisfying), then tip it all into a shallow bowl.

Step 3: Dunk and Dredge That Chicken

Crack your eggs into a bowl, add your hot sauce, and whisk until smooth. Drop in the chicken tenders and turn them until fully coated. Now, press each tender into your cornflake crumb mixture, turning so every inch is enrobed in that glorious crunch. Want an even thicker, crunchier crust? Double-dip: repeat the egg and crumb steps a second time!

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Crisp

Arrange the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet with a little breathing room between each. Give them a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for that final golden touch. Slide them into the oven and let them bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the coating is crisp and the chicken is juicy and cooked through. Don’t forget to peek under a piece for that irresistible golden brown color!

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

With about five minutes left on your bake timer, grab a small saucepot. Warm the honey, hot sauce, cayenne, chipotle chili powder, onion and garlic powders, plus a pinch of salt, stirring until just blended and steamy. It should be runny and pourable—if it thickens up before serving, a quick zap in the microwave for 5 seconds brings it right back.

Step 6: Assemble and Enjoy

Pull the chicken from the oven and drizzle each piece, generously, with the hot honey sauce. Finish with a shower of fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness. All that’s left to do is dig in—the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is best served hot and crispy!

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A generous sprinkling of fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley instantly lifts the flavors and adds a touch of color, making your platter pop. You can also add thinly sliced green onions or a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra bit of zing and crunch.

Side Dishes

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or simply a crisp green salad tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. For something more indulgent, offer sweet potato fries or roasted corn to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd or looking to switch things up, slice the chicken and pile it into soft slider buns with pickled veggies for a finger-licking sandwich. Or chop the chicken over a big bowl of mixed greens, drizzle with extra hot honey, and you’ve got an unforgettable main course salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken stays crunchy and flavorful for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Skip the honey sauce until you’re ready to serve; this guarantees the crunch lasts.

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then place pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a ziptop bag. The chicken will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy nights.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat the chicken in a hot oven (about 375° F) for 10 to 12 minutes from the fridge, or until the edges are sizzling. Drizzle with freshly warmed hot honey just before serving—your leftovers will taste as good as new!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs or drumsticks will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the baking time depending on the thickness—always check for doneness with a quick cut or thermometer.

How spicy is Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

The recipe is easy to customize. Use less cayenne and hot sauce if you’re sensitive to heat, or crank them up for serious spice lovers. You get to control the fire!

Can I make this gluten free?

Yes! Just reach for gluten-free cornflakes and double-check your hot sauce label. All other ingredients are naturally gluten free, so everyone can enjoy every bite.

What’s the best way to crush the cornflakes?

A food processor is quickest and gives you even crumbs, but smashing them in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin (or your hands) works just fine and adds a bit of kitchen fun. Tiny pieces stick best and create that signature crunch.

Do I have to serve all the chicken with hot honey?

While the sweet-and-spicy drizzle is the heart of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, you can leave some pieces plain for kids or anyone who prefers it mild. Serve the sauce on the side for dipping—everyone wins!

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to get excited about a recipe as mouthwatering as Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken! With its irresistible crunch and perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, this dish brings pure joy to any table. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again—don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to for every gathering, game day, or easy weeknight dinner!

Print

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is a delicious blend of crispy, flavorful chicken paired with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

  • Author: Jeannette
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

  • 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
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
  • extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Hot Honey:

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 23 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 13 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • sea salt
  • fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the coating: Crush cornflakes, parmesan, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Coat chicken in egg and hot sauce mixture, then dredge in crumbs.
  3. Bake the chicken: Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until crisp.
  4. Make the sauce: Warm honey, hot sauce, spices, and salt in a pot.
  5. Finish and serve: Drizzle sauce over chicken, top with herbs, and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, Chicken Recipe, Hot Honey Glaze, Gluten Free Chicken

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