When I think of a dish that brings the heat and sweetness together, simple hot honey chicken immediately comes to mind. It's mouthwatering and has a talent for turning any ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
Now, you might wonder what could elevate this dish even further. Well, let me tell you! Pair it with a chilled cucumber salad or a crisp coleslaw to cut through the spice.
Perhaps a side of fluffy jasmine rice or roasted veggies would complement those flavors splendidly too. Add a drizzle of extra hot honey over the plate, and you’ll have a culinary masterpiece.
At its core, simple hot honey chicken combines juicy chicken tenders with a crunchy coating and a sweet yet spicy honey sauce. The chicken is coated in a mixture of cornflakes and savory spices before being baked or fried until golden brown.
Then, it's finished with a drizzle of hot honey, which gives it that irresistible kick.
This dish is quick to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients you likely have in your kitchen already.
The combination of textures—the crispiness of the coating and the tenderness of the chicken—along with the flavor contrast between sweet and spicy, makes it a memorable meal.
Picture this: you take a bite, and the crunch gives way to tender, juicy chicken. Then, the heat from the honey sauce pours in, mingling with the sweetness to create a satisfying explosion of flavors in your mouth.
There’s a beautiful balance here—the sweetness of the honey tames the fire from the hot sauce, creating a harmony that lingers pleasantly after each bite. It’s a taste that beckons you to keep going back for more.
First, the versatility. You can serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Secondly, the ease of preparation. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a top-tier restaurant kitchen.
Finally, the flavors. Honestly, who doesn’t love that sweet-spicy combo? It can make any day feel special. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you've got a feast that will have everyone raving.
Here's what you’ll need to whip up this simple hot honey chicken:
Chicken and Coating:
Sweet & Spicy Honey Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your chicken tenders are patted dry. This is such a vital step because moisture can make them soggy instead of crispy. You want each piece dry and ready to absorb all the flavors.
In a large bowl, mix the cornflakes, smoked paprika, onion granules, and garlic granules. Crush the cornflakes a bit—it's fun and provides a fantastic crunch. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, lime juice, and spicy hot sauce until it's smooth and well combined.
Dunk each chicken tender in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Then, roll the tender in the cornflake mixture. Make sure to press firmly to ensure the coating sticks. Lay the coated chicken pieces on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to encourage browning.
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the chicken bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to get golden brown and reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
While the chicken bakes, mix up your sweet and spicy honey sauce. In a bowl, combine the honey, fiery hot sauce, ground cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well until everything is combined.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, toss the chicken in the hot honey sauce. Make sure each tender is glazed with that sweet heat. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Storing hot honey chicken is pretty easy. After it cools, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a quick trip to the oven will help re-crisp the coating.
If you've got a bunch, you can freeze the chicken. Lay it out in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag once frozen (this prevents clumping).
If you're looking to mix things up, here are some substitutes for the ingredients:
Simple hot honey chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It combines spice, sweetness, and crunch in a way that makes you linger over each bite, savoring the flavors.
It’s versatile, easy to make, and a meal that can easily turn into an everyday staple in your kitchen.
So grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary journey.
You might just find yourself wanting to make it again and again. Don’t forget to grab a friend or family member to share this out-of-this-world dish. Cooking is best when enjoyed together!
Have you ever had a moment where a dish just speaks to you?
That’s how I feel about simple hot honey chicken. The crunch of the coating, the juiciness of the chicken, all topped with that sweet heat—it’s a dance on your taste buds.
This dish doesn't just satisfy hunger; it brings joy, comfort, and a little warmth to your day.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the taste but in its simplicity. Whether you're preparing a family meal or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish shines in every setting.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve spent years crafting and fine-tuning recipes to meet every palate, making this hot honey chicken a prominent favorite.
Let's dive into everything you need to know about making it, tasting it, and loving every bite.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Glennis Annis, a registered dietitian and the creator of Hearty Food Ideas. Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, I’m passionate about sharing delicious, wholesome recipes that are easy to make and packed with comfort. Through my blog, I aim to help you create hearty meals that nourish both your body and soul, bringing joy to your kitchen and table.