Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
A delicious dish that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy honey sauce, perfect for weeknights or game days.
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.
Notes
For best results, ensure chicken is evenly coated for maximum crunch. Experiment with seasoning blends for unique flavors. Use skinless thighs for juiciness. Pair with cooling dips like ranch for contrast.