Go Back
Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken Recipe

When I first tried baked crunchy honey buffalo chicken, I was hooked instantly. The crispy cornflake coating with its satisfying crunch combined perfectly with the sweet and spicy honey buffalo sauce for an explosion of flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 442

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken and Coating
  • 6 cups crushed cornflakes: These create that signature crunchy coating.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nuttiness to the crust.
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky depth to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild savory kick.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a touch of aromatic flavor.
  • 2 large eggs beaten: Helps the crunchy coating stick to the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Adds a hint of spice to the egg mixture.
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs sliced: Lean and tender protein for the dish.
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • Honey Buffalo Sauce
  • ½ cup hot sauce: The base of the spicy tangy sauce.
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter: For richness and balance.
  • 1-2 teaspoons seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • ¾ teaspoon chipotle chili powder: Adds smoky spicy warmth.
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra kick of heat.
  • 2 tablespoons honey: Balances sweetness with the spiciness.
  • Optional Toppings
  • Sliced green onions: For a fresh zesty finish.
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Method
 

  1. Crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs using a food processor. Don’t have one? No problem! Toss the cornflakes in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. The spices add layers of flavor to the crispy coating.
  2. Whisk the eggs with hot sauce in another bowl. Dip each slice of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dredge the chicken through the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the process, double-dipping into the egg and then the crumbs.
  3. Arrange the coated chicken slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil for a golden, evenly baked crust. Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure an even crisp on all sides. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes to perfection!
  4. While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the hot sauce, seasoned salt, chipotle chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Once combined, remove it from the heat, then whisk in honey. The sauce should be silky, sweet, and spicy enough to tantalize your taste buds.
  5. Once the chicken is baked, generously drizzle the honey buffalo sauce over each piece. For extra pizazz, garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and crispy goodness!