Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is an irresistible dish that brings together a delightful crunch with a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for busy weeknights or game days, this recipe is simple and full of flavor. The best part? You can customize it to fit your taste preferences—add extra heat or switch out the proteins. Get ready to wow your family and friends with this delightful recipe!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken not only satisfies your cravings but does so in a healthier way compared to traditional frying. With the oven doing most of the work, you get the crispy texture without all the extra oil. It’s versatile, too! You can easily adapt the recipe by using different spices or adding veggies for an even heartier meal.
How to Make Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken Step by Step
Ingredients
1 egg
2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 1/4 cups corn flakes – finely crushed, or use Panko
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Kosher salt and black pepper
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
6 tablespoons salted butter
4-6 cloves garlic, chopped
3 tablespoons honey
1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg in a large bowl, then add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat. In a separate bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, flour, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces through the crumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for even cooking.
- Just before the chicken is done cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic over medium heat. Cook until the butter is browning and the garlic turns golden. Remove from heat and whisk in the honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes.
- Drizzle or pour the warm sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat. The sauce thickens quickly, so it’s best to use it while still warm. Serve it up!
How to Serve Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
This delicious dish pairs perfectly with classic sides like coleslaw or mac and cheese. For a fresh twist, serve it alongside a garden salad or some spicy pickles. If you love a little extra sauce, consider making a dipping sauce with your leftover honey mixture!
How to Store Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
For an easy storage option, place leftover Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350° F until warmed through. You can also freeze the uncooked breaded chicken for up to 3 months; just add extra cooking time when baking from frozen.
Expert Tips for Cooking Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
- Make sure the chicken is evenly coated to ensure maximum crunch.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Consider using skinless thighs for a juicier result.
- If you love heat, add more cayenne or even some hot sauce to the honey mixture.
- Serve with a cooling dip like ranch for contrast!
Delicious Variations of Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
- For an herbed version, add dried herbs like oregano and thyme to the crumb mixture.
- Try a citrus-infused twist by incorporating zest from lemons or limes into the honey sauce.
- If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with cauliflower or tofu cubes.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your dinner guests or family with this Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken. Its unique blend of flavors, crispy texture, and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe. Dive into a world of deliciousness and bring this fantastic dish to your table soon!
Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole egg Large egg
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1.25 cups corn flakes, finely crushed Alternatively, use Panko
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and black pepper To taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Sauce Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 4-6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg in a large bowl, then add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, flour, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces through the crumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Cooking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for even cooking.
- Just before the chicken is done cooking, prepare the sauce.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic over medium heat.
- Cook until the butter is browning and the garlic turns golden.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes.
- Drizzle or pour the warm sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat. Use the sauce while still warm.
