Introduction to Hot Honey Chicken
Let me tell you about my new favorite family dinner—Hot Honey Chicken! This delightful dish brings together crispy, golden chicken thighs with a sweet and spicy twist that’ll make everyone at the table smile. As a busy mom, I treasure recipes that not only satisfy hunger but also deliver on flavor without keeping me in the kitchen for hours. Trust me, this dish is a quick solution for those crazy weeknights when time is tight, yet your loved ones deserve something special!
Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Chicken
This Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of ease and taste, making it an excellent choice for busy days. With just a handful of ingredients, this delicious meal comes together in under 40 minutes. The crispy texture paired with that sweet, spicy sauce is a flavor explosion that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s baked, so it’s healthier than fried but still incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Hot Honey Chicken shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cornflakes: The star of the show for that crispy coating. You can use plain cornflakes or even try panko for an extra crunch!
- Smoked Paprika: This spice adds depth and a hint of smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika will work too.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: These bring in flavor without the fuss of chopping. They’re basically your kitchen MVPs!
- Salt: A must-have for bringing all those flavors together. Feel free to adjust to taste.
- Eggs: They help the cornflake mixture stick to the chicken, creating that mouthwatering crust.
- Buttermilk: This is the secret to juicy chicken and adds a lovely tang. If you’re out, make your own with milk and vinegar!
- Hot Sauce: Adds that kick! Adjust according to your heat preference. Trust me, a little can go a long way.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: My favorite for flavor and tenderness. Chicken breasts can work too, but thighs are juicier!
- Honey: The sweet element that drizzles over your chicken like a love letter. Opt for local honey if possible for the best flavor!
- Chili Flakes: This ingredient cranks up the heat. Adjust based on how daring you’re feeling!
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and brightness to your hot honey sauce. If you’re out, lemon juice can be a decent substitute.
For exact quantities and measurements, make sure to check out the printable recipe at the bottom of this article. Happy cooking!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this scrumptious Hot Honey Chicken! I promise, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with delicious aromas.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F. This step ensures even cooking, giving your chicken that perfect crispy texture. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes clean-up a breeze!
Step 2: Prepare the Cornflakes
Next, grab a plastic bag and seal in those cornflakes. Now, get a rolling pin and crush them to your desired coarseness. Think of a gentle roll—too fine, and you’ll lose that crunch! A bit of texture will work wonders in making that crispy coating stick to your chicken.
Step 3: Mix the Coatings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce until well combined. This will create the wet mix that fabulously binds the flavors!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Now we’re onto the fun part—coating the chicken! Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and immerse them in the egg mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the cornflake mixture, ensuring a delightful, even coating. Arrange each piece on your prepared baking sheet, giving them some room to breathe.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Time to bake! Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of a thigh. This step is crucial for safe cooking! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
Step 6: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
While your chicken is sumptuous and resting, let’s whip up that irresistible hot honey sauce! In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, chili flakes, and a bit of hot sauce. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Remove it from the heat, stir in apple cider vinegar, and let it infuse for 10 minutes. This sauce is where the magic happens!
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, it’s time for the grand finale! Drizzle the hot honey sauce over your crispy chicken thighs just before serving. The contrast of hot and sweet flavors is simply mouthwatering. Pair it with coleslaw or roasted veggies to round out the meal, and enjoy digging in with your family!
Tips for Success
- For maximum crunch, crush the cornflakes less finely than you think!
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your family’s heat preference.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; it helps retain moisture.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep—double the recipe and enjoy leftovers!
Equipment Needed
- Baking Sheet: A standard sheet works, but you can use a cast iron skillet for extra heat retention.
- Parchment Paper: Use foil if you’re out; it helps with easy clean-up.
- Any size will do, but nesting bowls can save space.
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for perfect doneness; a simple timer can help, too!
Variations for Hot Honey Chicken
- Spicy Honey Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot honey sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornflakes or crushed nuts instead of regular cornflakes for a gluten-free delight!
- Honey Mustard Twist: Mix honey with mustard for a tangy, sweet sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for cauliflower or tofu and bake until crispy for a satisfying meatless option.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cornflake mixture for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Chicken
- Classic Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw perfectly balances the heat of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers roasted to perfection make a colorful side.
- Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits add a delightful touch, perfect for soaking up extra hot honey.
- Margaritas: A refreshing drink option that complements the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Presentation Tip: Serve on a rustic wooden board for that cozy, home-cooked feel!
FAQs about Hot Honey Chicken
Can I make Hot Honey Chicken with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember they might cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.
Is Hot Honey Chicken spicy?
It depends on your preference! The heat mainly comes from the hot sauce and chili flakes. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce to make it milder or bolder according to your family’s taste.
Can I prepare Hot Honey Chicken ahead of time?
You sure can! You can coat the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just pop it in the oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma as it bakes.
What should I serve with Hot Honey Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with classic coleslaw, roasted veggies, or even fluffy biscuits! You could also whip up a refreshing salad on the side for a lighter meal option.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Hot Honey Chicken is not just about making a meal; it’s about creating joyful moments with loved ones. Imagine the laughter around the dinner table, everyone savoring that perfect sweet and spicy crunch. It’s a reminder that delicious dinners can be simple, quick, and fulfilling. With just a handful of ingredients, you can treat your family to a dish that feels special, elevating any weeknight. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the fun of cooking, and let this recipe become a beloved staple in your home. Trust me; you’ll cherish the smiles and satisfaction it brings!
Print
Hot Honey Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hot Honey Chicken is a sweet and spicy dish featuring crispy chicken thighs coated in cornflakes and drizzled with a flavorful hot honey sauce.
Ingredients
- 5 cups corn flakes
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 to 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¾ cup honey
- 1½ tablespoons chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Seal the cornflakes in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin, to your desired coarseness.
- In one bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
- Add the chicken to the egg mixture and toss to coat. Dredge the chicken thighs in the cornflake mixture, ensuring an even coating. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey and chili flakes and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and stir in the hot sauce and apple cider vinegar. Allow to infuse for 10 minutes.
- Drizzle the hot honey over the chicken and serve.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, crush the cornflakes less finely.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to taste.
- This dish pairs well with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
