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Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken

Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken

The ultimate comfort food has arrived! Enjoy the crispy goodness of Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken, drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce that satisfies your cravings. Perfect for any occasion, it's an easy weeknight dinner that will impress your family and friends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Egg
  • 2 pounds Boneless Chicken Breasts cut into cubes
  • 1.25 cups Corn Flakes finely crushed, or use Panko
  • 2 tablespoons Flour
  • 0.5 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Kosher Salt and Black Pepper
  • to drizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 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
  • 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Chili Flakes to taste

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Skillet
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425° F (220° C). This high temperature is key for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the chicken. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the egg. Add the boneless chicken breasts cut into cubes, and toss well to coat each piece. This egg wash is crucial as it helps the cornflake coating adhere to the chicken.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the finely crushed corn flakes, flour, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. This mixture will create the crunchy coating that everyone loves.
  4. Now, take each piece of chicken and dredge it through the cornflake mixture, ensuring each piece is fully covered. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
  5. Drizzle the chicken with extra virgin olive oil. This will help the coating turn golden brown and crispy. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure a nice even cook.
  6. While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small skillet, melt the butter and add in the chopped garlic. Cook over medium heat until the butter is bubbling and the garlic turns golden. This will add a wonderful aroma to your kitchen!
  7. Once the garlic is golden, remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes. The sauce should be well combined and have a nice consistency.
  8. As the chicken approaches the end of its baking time, check if it’s fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165° F (75° C). When done, remove it from the oven.
  9. Drizzle or pour the warm hot honey sauce over the baked chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. The sauce thickens quickly, so be sure to use it while still warm to achieve that luscious finish.
  10. Serve your Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken immediately! It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the baked chicken for up to two months. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or freezer bags.
  • Tip 3: This dish goes wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Tip 4: If you want to mix things up, try adding different seasonings to the cornflake mixture, such as Italian herbs or garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Tip 5: For optimal crispiness, place the coated chicken on a cooling rack set over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken while it bakes.