There’s something truly exhilarating about the crunch of perfectly baked chicken—every bite offers a delightful contrast to the tender meat hidden inside. One rainy afternoon, while searching for a way to elevate my dinner game and break free from the monotony of takeout, I stumbled upon the idea of using cornflakes for a crispy coating. And that’s how this Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken was born.
Imagine succulent chicken breasts lightly coated in a zesty blend of spices and bathed in a sticky, sweet honey buffalo sauce that dances on your palate with each bite. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to make in your cozy kitchen, sparing you from the greasy alternatives that often fill our evenings. With its flavorful punch and crispy texture, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together—whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a game day feast with friends. Join me as we transform the ordinary into something extraordinary!
Why will you love Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Irresistible crunch: The cornflake coating creates an addictive crispy texture that elevates your average chicken dish.
Finger-licking flavor: A perfect harmony of sweet and spicy from the honey buffalo sauce will have you reaching for seconds.
Easy to prepare: This recipe is quick, requiring just 20-25 minutes in the oven, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-friendly appeal: Kid-approved and great for adults, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with blue cheese or ranch dressing and your favorite sides for a full meal.
For more delightful chicken recipes, don’t miss my guide on chicken marinades.
Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend for your next favorite meal!
For the Coating
• Cornflakes – these deliver that irresistible crunch that’s hard to resist.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Smoked Paprika – brings a subtle smokiness that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Onion Powder – a must for adding depth to the flavor.
• Garlic Powder – lends an aromatic kick that pairs fantastically with buffalo sauce.
For the Chicken
• Large Eggs – help the coating adhere to the chicken, creating a crispy golden crust.
• Hot Sauce – gives an exciting zesty kick; feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance!
• Chicken Breast or Skinless Thighs – choose either for juicy and tender results, perfect for this honey buffalo dish.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – a light drizzle contributes to the crispiness and prevents sticking.
For the Honey Buffalo Sauce
• Hot Sauce – you’ll need 1/2 cup to make the sauce perfectly fiery.
• Salted Butter – adds richness and balances the spice with a luscious texture.
• Seasoned Salt – enhances flavors and elevates the overall taste uniquely.
• Chipotle Chili Powder – offers a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of honey.
• Cayenne Pepper – just a pinch adds an extra kick, but adjust to your heat preference.
• Honey – the star ingredient that transforms the sauce into a sweet balancer for the spices.
For Serving
• Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing – brings creaminess that cuts through the spice, recommended for dipping!
• Sliced Green Onions – not only adds a pop of color but also fresh flavor to finish your dish perfectly.
Enjoy creating this Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken, and watch as everyone falls in love with this flavor fiesta!
How to Make Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken
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Preheat the oven to 425° F. Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
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Blend the coating ingredients in a food processor. Combine cornflakes, parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you get fine crumbs that will make a perfect crispy coating.
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Whisk the eggs in a bowl and mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, tossing well to ensure they’re fully coated in that zesty goodness.
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Dredge the chicken in the crumb mixture. Make sure to cover each piece fully, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. For an extra crunch, backtrack: dip the chicken in the egg mix and then crumbs one more time before drizzling with olive oil.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy all around. This will ensure you achieve that perfect crunch.
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Prepare the honey buffalo sauce while the chicken cooks. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the hot sauce with butter, seasoned salt, and cayenne. Stir until well combined, then remove from heat and whisk in the honey until smooth.
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Drizzle the homemade honey buffalo sauce over the baked chicken once it’s out of the oven. Toss with green onions and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for a delightful dip.
Optional: Garnish with additional green onion slices for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cornflakes with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a similar crunch without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the honey buffalo sauce for an extra layer of heat and vibrant flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the cornflake coating for wonderful aromatic tones.
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Honey Mustard Twist: Replace honey with honey mustard in the sauce for a tangy zing that complements the spices beautifully.
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Tahini Sauce: Drizzle tahini mixed with lemon juice instead of the buffalo sauce for a nutty, rich alternative.
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Air Fryer Option: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for around 15-20 minutes for an even quicker and healthier alternative.
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Veggie Version: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken to create a scrumptious vegetarian take on the original recipe.
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Parmesan Crust Booster: Mix in some shredded mozzarella to the cornflake coating for an even cheesier bite.
Each of these delicious variations can elevate your Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken, ensuring everyone enjoys a meal tailored to their taste!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, let them cool and consume within 2 hours for safety.
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven for the best crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying delicious homemade meals! You can prep the chicken coating (cornflakes, parmesan, and spices) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken in the egg and hot sauce mixture, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the prepared coating, drizzle with olive oil, and cook as directed. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making dinner feel effortless on busy weeknights.
Helpful Tricks for Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken
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Perfectly Crisp: Use fresh cornflakes for that ultimate crunch. Stale ones won’t provide the same satisfying texture!
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Double Dipping: For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back in the egg and crumbs again. This adds even more crunch and flavor to your Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken.
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Temp Check: Ensure your oven is preheated to 425° F before baking. This helps achieve that crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
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Sauce Timing: Drizzle the honey buffalo sauce just after baking for a deliciously gooey finish. Allowing it to sit can make the chicken soggy, so act fast!
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Customize Spice: Adjust the hot sauce in the coating or the honey buffalo sauce to suit your family’s spice tolerance for a more enjoyable meal.
What to Serve with Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Transform your meal with delightful sides that elevate the flavors and textures of this crispy chicken dish.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy counterpart that adds crunch and balances the spicy chicken with its cool creaminess.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These tender, buttery potatoes provide a hearty sidekick, soaking up every bit of the honey buffalo sauce.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweetness of corn complements the spicy sauce perfectly while adding a seasonal touch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken.
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Macaroni and Cheese: The creaminess of cheesy pasta melds beautifully with the spice, offering comfort on your plate that will please everyone.
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Brewed Iced Tea: A slightly sweetened tea offers a refreshing sip that cools down the palate after each spicy bite of chicken.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! These gooey cookies provide a comforting sweetness that perfectly balances the meal’s spicy flavors.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits bring a burst of color, sweetness, and brightness to your plate, creating a palate-cleansing experience.
Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of cornflakes should I use for the coating?
Absolutely! For the best crunch, I recommend using fresh, plain cornflakes. Avoid frosted or flavored versions as they can alter the taste and sweetness of your Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken.
How should I store leftover Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?
It’s easy! Place leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to bring back that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
What if my chicken coating isn’t sticking?
Very! If you find that the coating isn’t adhering well, make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken in the egg mixture first. A second dip in the cornflake crumbs can also help create a thicker coating. The more you layer, the crunchier it gets!
Is this recipe safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! Ensure you check the labels on the hot sauce and seasoned salt for potential allergens. If you’re serving guests or family with dairy allergies, you can substitute the blue cheese/ranch dressing with a dairy-free alternative. Always adjust the spices to accommodate personal preferences!
How can I alter the spice level in this recipe?
For sure! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce in both the coating and the honey buffalo sauce. Alternatively, you can add additional honey to counterbalance the heat without losing that delicious sweetness. Enjoy experimenting!
Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken That'll Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425° F. Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Blend the coating ingredients in a food processor until you get fine crumbs.
- Whisk the eggs and mix in the hot sauce, then add the chicken pieces.
- Dredge the chicken in the crumb mixture and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the honey buffalo sauce by melting ingredients in a saucepan.
- Drizzle the sauce over baked chicken and serve with dressing and green onions.