As I reached for the spices in my kitchen, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, igniting a sense of nostalgia for the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Hot Honey Chicken, a dish that beautifully blends crispy baked chicken thighs with a tantalizing sweet and spicy glaze. Packed with user-friendly steps, this recipe is both a time-saver and a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a golden, crunchy cornflake coating, and a drizzle of addictively sweet hot honey, it’s comfort food elevated to new heights. So, are you ready to transform your dinner routine and impress everyone at your table with this mouthwatering feast? Why is Hot Honey Chicken a Must-Try? Irresistibly Crispy: The golden cornflake coating not only offers a crunchy texture but also locks in the juiciness of the chicken thighs, creating a delightful contrast with every bite. Sweet and Spicy Bliss: With a delightful blend of honey and heat, this dish captures the essence of Southern cuisine, making it a standout at any dinner table. User-Friendly: The simple steps make this recipe accessible to everyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey. Customizable: Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite spices to the cornflake mixture or adjust the sweetness and heat levels to fit your taste—endless variations await! Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend feast, this crowd-pleasing dish will leave your family and friends raving for more. Pair it with delicious sides like Crispy Fried Chicken Street Tacos or Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos to complete the meal! Hot Honey Chicken Ingredients For the Cornflake Coating • Corn Flakes – Adds a crunchy texture; substitute with panko or unseasoned breadcrumbs for variety. • Smoked Paprika – Provides a smoky depth; use regular paprika for a milder flavor. • Garlic Powder – Adds savory flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a more robust taste. • Onion Powder – Enhances overall taste; omit if you have an allergy. • Salt – Essential for flavor; adjust based on your personal taste. For the Chicken • Eggs – Acts as a binder for the coating; consider a flax egg for a vegan option. • Buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor; substitute with milk + vinegar for a dairy-free option. • Hot Sauce – Adds heat; adjust to your preferred spice level. • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The juicy main protein; chicken breasts can be used, but cooking time may vary. For the Hot Honey Glaze • Honey – Provides the sweet element critical to this Hot Honey Chicken dish; maple syrup can serve as a substitute for a different twist. • Chili Flakes – Adds heat and texture to the honey; red pepper flakes are an alternative. • Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with acidity; swap for lemon juice if needed. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier. This setup not only saves time but also ensures your Hot Honey Chicken bakes evenly, allowing that golden perfection to shine through. Step 2: Crush the Cornflakes Take a plastic bag and pour in a generous amount of cornflakes. With a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pot, gently crush the cornflakes until they’re a mix of fine crumbs and larger pieces for extra texture. This will become the crunchy coating for your chicken and will add a delightful crunch when baked. Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture In a large bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed, infusing the cornflakes with flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce until creamy; this mixture will act as the binder for the chicken. Step 4: Coat the Chicken Take each boneless, skinless chicken thigh and first dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, transfer it to the cornflake mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto the surface to stick well. Repeat this process for all the chicken thighs, creating a deliciously crispy exterior for your Hot Honey Chicken. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Place the coated chicken thighs on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should appear golden and crispy, giving those signature southern vibes to your dinner table. Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Glaze While the chicken bakes, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey and chili flakes, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in hot sauce and apple cider vinegar, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together, creating a sweet and spicy glaze. Step 7: Drizzle and Serve Once the chicken is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and generously drizzle the hot honey glaze over the crispy pieces. The glaze will add a luscious layer of sweetness and heat, bringing your Hot Honey Chicken to life. Serve immediately and soak in the compliments from your family and friends! How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Fridge: Keep your Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and ensures it stays delicious for later enjoyment. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Make-Ahead: If preparing in advance, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking for a quick weeknight dinner. Hot Honey Chicken Customization Ideas Get ready to make this recipe your own with delightful twists that elevate your Hot Honey Chicken! Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a mix of dairy-free milk and vinegar. This will keep the chicken tender while accommodating dietary needs. Spicy Extra: Add extra hot sauce to the egg mixture for a more intense heat level. If you love a fiery kick, don’t hold back on the heat—it’ll elevate your taste experience! Sweet & Smoky: Mix in a tablespoon of smoked paprika into the hot honey glaze for a deeper flavor. This addition brings a lovely smokiness that beautifully complements the sweetness. Crispy Cornflake Alternatives: Swap cornflakes for crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture and flavor profile. Both of these alternatives add crunch and unique twists! Honey Variations: Experiment with flavored honey, such as jalapeño or infused citrus, for a refreshing twist. Each flavor brings a delicious surprise with every bite. Basting Brilliance: Brush the chicken with hot honey halfway through baking for a stickier glaze. This extra layer transforms it into a sticky, finger-licking treat! Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with thick slices of eggplant or cauliflower, following the same breading and baking steps. You’ll create a delicious, satisfying plant-based version! Parmesan Twist: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the cornflake coating for a richness that blends beautifully with the chicken’s flavor. This cheesy touch takes your dish to a whole new level of yummy! For serving suggestions, consider pairing with Crispy Fried Chicken Street Tacos or try a side of Cranberry Chicken Savory to tantalize the taste buds! Enjoy your flavor adventure! What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken The perfect meal isn’t complete without complementary sides that elevate the flavors of this sweet and spicy delight. Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy crunch of coleslaw balances the heat, adding a refreshing contrast to each hearty bite of chicken. Garlic Butter Collard Greens: These greens offer a rich, savory touch, harmonizing with the chicken’s sweetness while providing a nutrient-packed addition to your plate. Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes create a delightful texture contrast, soaking up the honey glaze beautifully for a satisfying side. Cornbread Muffins: Soft, buttery cornbread muffins enhance the Southern theme while adding a heavenly sweetness that complements the spicy chicken. Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: A zesty dipping sauce like this can brighten the chicken’s flavor, offering a tangy counterbalance to its sweet glaze. Lemonade or Sweet Tea: The bright acidity of freshly squeezed lemonade or the classic sweetness of iced tea counters the rich flavors, refreshing your palate with each sip. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies bring a familiar sweetness that’s comforting and complements the spicy and sweet adventure of the meal. Expert Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken Crispier Coating: Press the cornflakes firmly onto the chicken to ensure a well-adhered, crispy finish. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch! Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety and juiciness. Spice Control: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of hot sauce and chili flakes to cater to your family’s spice preferences without losing character in your Hot Honey Chicken. Parmesan Addition: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cornflake mixture before breading the chicken. It takes the dish to another level! Baking Perfection: Allow space between the chicken thighs on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming, which can dampen that delightful crispy texture. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Hot Honey Chicken in advance is an excellent way to save time, especially on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the buttermilk and hot sauce mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat. Additionally, you can mix the cornflake coating and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the cornflake mixture, bake it as directed until golden and crispy, and drizzle with the hot honey glaze. This ensures your Hot Honey Chicken is just as delicious and satisfying, with minimal effort on the day of serving! Hot Honey Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken thighs for my Hot Honey Chicken? Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken thighs that are plump and slightly moist. Fresh thighs should have a pink color with no dark spots. If using frozen thighs, be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results. How long can I store leftover Hot Honey Chicken? I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, ready for a tasty second round! Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken? Yes! To freeze, first allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Place the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through and crispy again! What should I do if my cornflake coating isn’t sticking to the chicken? No worries! If the cornflake coating isn’t adhering well, try pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken after dredging it in the egg mixture. You can also refrigerate the breaded chicken for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking. Are there any dietary considerations for Hot Honey Chicken? Certainly! If cooking for someone with allergies, you can omit the onion powder if they’re sensitive. For dairy-free alternatives, use almond milk and vinegar in place of buttermilk, and consider plant-based butter if dairy is a concern. For pets, it’s best to keep them away from honey due to the potential risks. Can I make my Hot Honey Chicken spicier? Very! To amp up the heat, simply increase the amount of hot sauce or chili flakes in the glaze. You might also consider marinating the chicken in additional hot sauce before breading. But remember, taste as you go to find the right balance that fits your family’s spice preference! Crispy Hot Honey Chicken: Sweet Meets Spicy Bliss at Home Delight in the flavors of Hot Honey Chicken—crispy baked chicken thighs enveloped in a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: SouthernCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cornflake Coating4 cups Corn Flakes Substitute with panko or unseasoned breadcrumbs for variety.1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika for a milder flavor.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a more robust taste.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Omit if you have an allergy.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on your personal taste.For the Chicken2 large Eggs Consider a flax egg for a vegan option.1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with milk + vinegar for a dairy-free option.2 tablespoons Hot Sauce Adjust to your preferred spice level.1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts can be used, but cooking time may vary.For the Hot Honey Glaze0.5 cup Honey Maple syrup can serve as a substitute for a different twist.1 teaspoon Chili Flakes Red pepper flakes are an alternative.2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Swap for lemon juice if needed. Equipment ovenbaking sheetparchment paperPlastic bagRolling PinBowlsSaucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Hot Honey ChickenPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Crush the cornflakes in a plastic bag until they're a mix of fine crumbs and larger pieces.In a large bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce until creamy.Dip each chicken thigh into the egg mixture, then into the cornflake mixture, pressing the coating firmly.Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).In a small saucepan, combine honey and chili flakes, bring to a gentle boil. Stir in hot sauce and apple cider vinegar, then let simmer for about 10 minutes.Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the hot honey glaze over the pieces. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesPress cornflakes firmly onto the chicken for a crispy finish. Always check the internal temperature for food safety. Space chicken thighs on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
