Oven-Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken

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Crispy, flavorful, and coated in a sweet-and-spicy glaze, Oven-Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is a dish that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to game-day gatherings. Created by Tieghan Gerard, this recipe masterfully blends the crunch of oven-fried chicken with the fiery sweetness of a hot honey sauce. Each bite delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors: golden-brown chicken with a smoky, spicy glaze that’s both comforting and exciting.

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Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe offers a healthier take on fried chicken without compromising flavor. Let’s dive into how to create this showstopping dish step by step.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 egg
• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 1/4 cups corn flakes (finely crushed) or Panko
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• 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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

2. Coat the Chicken

• In a large bowl, beat the egg and add the cubed chicken, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly.
• In a separate bowl, combine crushed cornflakes (or Panko), flour, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix well.
• Dredge the chicken pieces one by one in the cornflake mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to promote even crisping.

3. Bake the Chicken

• Drizzle the coated chicken pieces with olive oil. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior without frying.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through to ensure even browning.

4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce

• As the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté until the butter browns slightly and the garlic becomes golden and aromatic (about 2-3 minutes).
• Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes. Adjust cayenne and chili flakes to your preferred spice level.

5. Glaze the Chicken

• Once the chicken is done (golden and cooked through), remove it from the oven. Drizzle or toss the warm hot honey sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve the popcorn chicken immediately while hot and crispy. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, a side of coleslaw, or buttery cornbread for a full Southern-inspired meal.

Vivid Descriptions of Flavors and Textures

This dish is a sensory delight: the chicken’s crispy coating shatters with every bite, giving way to juicy, tender meat inside. The hot honey glaze is the real star, combining buttery richness with a kick of cayenne and a hint of garlic. The sweetness of the honey tempers the heat, creating a balanced, flavorful experience that lingers on the palate.

The aroma of smoked paprika and browned garlic fills your kitchen, making it almost impossible to wait for the first bite. Each piece of chicken is infused with a depth of flavor that’s bold yet comforting—perfect for spice lovers and Southern food enthusiasts alike.

Tips and Tricks

• Ingredient Substitutions:
  • Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for a lighter, airier crunch.
  • Swap cayenne pepper with chipotle powder for a smokier heat.
  • Replace honey with maple syrup for a different take on the sweet glaze.
• Variations:
  • Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture for a tangy kick.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds or fresh chopped parsley over the finished dish for a touch of elegance.
  • Make it a meal by serving the chicken over fluffy waffles or alongside roasted vegetables.
• Serving Suggestions:
  • Pair this dish with creamy ranch dressing or tangy blue cheese dip.
  • Balance the heat with a side of cool cucumber salad or a refreshing watermelon-feta salad.
• Storage and Reheating:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F to restore crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven-fried popcorn chicken is everything you want in a dish: crispy, flavorful, and covered in a sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Unlike traditional fried chicken, this recipe is baked, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing that satisfying crunch.

The hot honey sauce elevates the dish to gourmet levels, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises a memorable dining experience.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to impress—this Oven-Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is about to become your new favorite!