Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of spicy, crunchy, and savory dishes, this baked honey buffalo chicken will quickly become your go-to recipe. The cornflake coating creates a crispy texture on the outside, while the chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside. The sweet and spicy honey buffalo sauce adds a bold flavor profile that’s perfect for those who love a little kick with their meal. Plus, this dish is baked, not fried, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten-free if needed)

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

• 2 pounds chicken breast or skinless thighs

• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

• Blue cheese or ranch dressing, for serving

• Sliced green onions, for serving

For the Honey Buffalo Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce

• 6 tablespoons salted butter

• 1-2 teaspoons seasoned salt

• ¾ teaspoon chipotle chili powder

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 2 tablespoons honey

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can crush the crumbs in a ziplock bag by stepping on them. Transfer the crumbs into a shallow bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the hot sauce and toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well-coated.

4. Dredge the chicken through the cornflake crumbs, ensuring each piece is fully covered. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet. For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back in the egg mixture and then through the crumbs a second time.

5. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.

6. While the chicken bakes, make the honey buffalo sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the hot sauce, butter, seasoned salt, chipotle chili powder, and cayenne pepper together. Stir until everything is melted and well-combined. Remove from heat and stir in the honey.

7. Once the chicken is done, drizzle it with the prepared buffalo sauce. Top with sliced green onions and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing. Enjoy over rice or with French fries for an extra treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chicken thighs: For a richer, more flavorful option, try using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

• Add more heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chili flakes to the buffalo sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornflakes to make this recipe completely gluten-free.

• Add vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a wholesome meal.

• Air fryer option: You can make these crispy chicken bites in an air fryer for an even quicker, less oily version of this recipe. Cook at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the cornflakes ahead of time, then store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. The buffalo sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce, or use a hotter variety of hot sauce for a more intense kick.

4. Can I use a different type of cereal for the coating?

Cornflakes are best for this recipe because they give a perfect crunch, but you could try using crushed rice cereal or even panko breadcrumbs if you prefer.

5. How do I make the buffalo sauce less spicy?

To reduce the heat, cut back on the cayenne pepper and chipotle chili powder. You can also add a bit more honey to balance the flavors.

6. Can I cook this dish in an air fryer?

Yes! You can air fry the chicken at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until it’s golden and crispy.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to place it in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing.

9. Can I make this recipe without hot sauce?

You can substitute the hot sauce with a milder sauce, such as BBQ sauce, or skip it entirely for a non-spicy version.

10. What should I serve this with?

This dish is fantastic with rice, French fries, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken is an irresistible dish that combines bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners or game-day gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With easy-to-follow steps, customizable ingredients, and a deliciously spicy-sweet sauce, it’s a dish you’ll make again and again.