Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
A delightful fusion of crispy, spicy, and sweet flavors, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crunchy Coating
- 6 cups cornflakes Use gluten-free, if needed.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast works as a dairy-free alternative.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- Extra virgin olive oil to taste Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
For the Hot Honey Sauce
- ½ cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce Adjust to taste.
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper Adjust for spice preference.
- ¾ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder For the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder For the sauce.
- Sea salt to taste Sea salt, to taste
For Garnishing
- Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, grated parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until fine crumbs form.
Coating the Chicken
- Beat the eggs in a bowl and mix in the hot sauce.
- Toss chicken tenderloins in the egg and hot sauce mixture to coat.
- Dredge each tenderloin in the cornflake mixture, coating thoroughly. For a thicker coating, double dip.
Baking
- Arrange the coated chicken on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Making the Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until mixed and heated through.
Serving
- Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the baked chicken and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
For variation, consider adding nuts, using dried herbs, or incorporating seasonal flavors. Adjust spice levels as needed.