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The first bite of this Cornflake Crusted Chicken with Hot Honey takes me back to those cozy Sunday dinners with loved ones gathered around the table. The crunch of the cornflakes creates a delightful texture while the irresistible drizzle of spicy honey elevates this dish to a whole new level. It’s an unexpected marriage of flavors that’s both sweet and savory, offering a satisfying contrast that’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something special without spending hours slaving in the kitchen.

I remember the day I decided to swap out greasy takeout for this homemade gem. With minimal effort, I found myself plating a meal that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This Hot Honey Chicken is not just easy to make; it’s a crowd-pleaser that beckons smiles and satisfied sighs with each juicy bite. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hot Honey Chicken a must-try?

Crispy Bliss: The cornflake coating provides an amazing crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.
Sweet and Spicy: A drizzle of hot honey adds the perfect balance of sweetness and heat that elevates this dish.
Easy Prep: With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this chicken is sure to impress at any table.
Quick Cook Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe saves you time while delivering bold flavors and satisfaction.
Give this classic a modern update and make it a staple in your home with every delicious bite!

Hot Honey Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to create a mouthwatering dish!

For the Coating

Corn flakes – Adds a perfect crunch that elevates your Hot Honey Chicken.
Smoked paprika – Offers a smoky depth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Garlic powder – Brings robust flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
Onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this delightful dish.

For the Chicken

Large eggs – Helps the cornflake coating adhere perfectly, ensuring a crispy texture.
Buttermilk – Infuses the chicken with moisture and a touch of tanginess.
Hot sauce – Just the right addition for those who enjoy a little kick!
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, perfect for this quick-cook recipe.

For the Hot Honey Drizzle

Honey – Adds that sweet touch, making every bite irresistible.
Chili flakes – Enhance the honey with a burst of heat that delights your palate.
Hot sauce – Infuses a tangy kick to the honey, balancing sweetness and spice.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds a hint of acidity that brightens the flavors beautifully.

Now you’re all set to create a sensational Hot Honey Chicken dish that your family will love!

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures an even cook while adding that perfect crunch.
Crush the cornflakes by sealing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin. Aim for a coarse crumb texture, which will create a delightful crust on the chicken.
Mix the coating ingredients in one bowl: combine the crushed cornflakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce until smooth and combined.
Coat the chicken thighs by adding them to the egg mixture, tossing to ensure they are well covered. Dredge each piece in the cornflake mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the coating. Arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Whisk together honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it just to a boil, then immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
Stir in hot sauce and apple cider vinegar into the honey mixture, allowing it to infuse for about 10 minutes as it cools and thickens slightly.
Drizzle the spicy honey generously over the hot chicken before serving. This adds that sweet kick that transforms your dish into something truly special.

Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for a vibrant finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken?

Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that complement the scrumptious flavors of your chicken delight.

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, refreshing side brings a sweet tang that contrasts beautifully with the spicy notes of the chicken.
Garlic Bread: Soft and savory, this bread soaks up the hot honey drizzle perfectly, making every bite a heavenly experience.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized gems add a delightful earthiness that enhances the sweet and spicy profile of the chicken.
Baked Mac and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this comforting dish balances the heat with its rich texture, pleasing even the pickiest palate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the natural sweetness of corn makes it an ideal companion to the spicy chicken, uniting flavors harmoniously.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A vibrant mix of cucumbers and herbs provides a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the hot honey infused chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy delights offer a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the spiciness, creating a deliciously addictive side.
Iced Sweet Tea: The cool, sweet undertones of this classic drink refresh your palate, making it the perfect sip alongside your flavorful meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the cornflake coating and marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. Simply store the coated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is dredge the chicken in the cornflake mixture and bake it. For the hot honey drizzle, you can make it and store it in a jar for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently before drizzling over the chicken for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Hot Honey Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions that add your own personal touch to this beloved recipe!

Gluten-Free: Swap cornflakes for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Addition: Mix diced jalapeños into the hot honey blend for an extra layer of heat and flavor.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the hot honey for a refreshing twist.
Crispy Oven Fries: Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful and nutritious side that pairs perfectly.
Vegan Version: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets and use a vegan egg substitute with a dairy-free buttermilk alternative for a plant-based delight.
Sweet & Tangy: Add a splash of orange juice to the hot honey mixture for a citrusy goodness that balances the heat beautifully.
Crunchy Toppings: Consider topping with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture and an unexpected savory crunch.
Seasoned Switch: Experiment with different spice blends, like Cajun or Italian seasoning, for a unique flavor profile boosting your Hot Honey Chicken excitement!

Dive in, customize, and make this recipe your own—it’s all about celebrating the joy of cooking together!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes, checking until heated through. Add a drizzle of hot honey after reheating to rejuvenate flavors.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Hot Honey Chicken out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken

Cornflake Crunch: Use fresh cornflakes for the best texture—stale flakes can result in a soggy coating.
Proper Coating: Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated with the egg mixture before dredging in cornflakes to prevent bare spots.
Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This ensures your Hot Honey Chicken is juicy and safe to eat.
Customize Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey drizzle to manage the spice level according to your family’s taste preferences.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking for better juiciness and flavor retention.

Hot Honey Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of corn flakes should I use for Hot Honey Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using plain corn flakes for this recipe, as they provide the best texture and flavor. Avoid flavored or sugary varieties, as they can alter the taste of your dish.

How should I store leftover Hot Honey Chicken?
To store your delicious leftovers, place the Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that can make it soggy.

Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken for later?
Very! To freeze your Hot Honey Chicken, simply place it in an airtight freezer bag or container, ensuring all air is removed to prevent frostbite. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking at 375°F for about 15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What do I do if my cornflake coating doesn’t stick?
If you find that your cornflake coating isn’t adhering well, ensure that the chicken is thoroughly coated in the egg and buttermilk mixture. Press the chicken firmly into the cornflake mixture to help it stick better. You can also let the coated chicken sit for a few minutes before baking, allowing the coating to set.

Is Hot Honey Chicken safe for pets to eat?
While this dish is delicious for humans, I don’t recommend giving it to pets. Ingredients like hot sauce and chili flakes can be harmful to animals. Always check with your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends!

How can I adjust the spiciness level of this dish?
To manage the heat in your Hot Honey Chicken, simply adjust the amount of hot sauce you use in both the egg mixture and the hot honey drizzle. You can even reduce or skip the chili flakes if you prefer a milder flavor. Start with a little, and you can always add more to suit your taste!