Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken.
This Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is a crunchy, spicy delight with a sweet honey twist!
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking Spray or Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 egg to help bind the coating
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts cut into cubes
- 1 1/4 cups corn flakes finely crushed (or Panko)
- 2 tablespoons flour added texture for the coating
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for rich, smoky flavor
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- 6 tablespoons salted butter for rich flavor in the sauce
- 4-6 cloves garlic chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey for sweetness
- 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder adds depth to flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra smokiness
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder subtle flavor enhancer
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a crispy exterior.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and toss in the cubed chicken. Mix until well-coated.
- In another bowl, combine crushed corn flakes, flour, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Dredge the egg-coated chicken in the corn flakes mixture and set aside on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly drizzle olive oil over the coated chicken pieces.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Melt butter in a skillet, add chopped garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Stir in honey, cayenne, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes.
- Toss the baked chicken in the hot honey sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crunch, consider double-coating the chicken.
- For a milder sauce, reduce the cayenne pepper and chili flakes.
- This recipe is customizable; add your favorite spices or herbs.
- Monitor chicken closely while baking to prevent burning.