Baked Crunchy Buffalo Chicken - Hearty Food Ideas
Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy piece of chicken, bursting with spicy buffalo flavor. Baked crunchy buffalo chicken achieves that. The blend of seasonings and a crunchy coating makes this dish a crowd favorite. It's easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion.
Servings 6
Calories 360kcal
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut as desired
- 2 tablespoons zesty hot sauce
- 2 large eggs, lightly whisked
- 6 cups crushed cornflakes cereal use gluten-free if preferred
- 1 tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
- 1/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon granulated onion
- Extra virgin olive oil, for misting or drizzling
For the Zingy Honey Buffalo Glaze:
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup buffalo-style hot pepper sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey, preferably raw
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 teaspoons flavored seasoning salt like garlic-herb or Cajun, based on preference
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili flakes or powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure an even cook and allows you to get well-coated crispy bites.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs and hot sauce together. This mix helps the cornflakes adhere to the chicken. In another bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, smoked paprika, Parmesan, garlic granules, and granulated onion. This mixture creates the crunchy coating.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then, toss it in the cornflake mixture until well-coated. Let it sit for a minute to help the coating stick.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly mist or drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
- While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the buffalo sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and seasoning salt. Mix until well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Glaze the Chicken
- Once the chicken is out of the oven, toss the crispy pieces in the glaze until well coated. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip, and sprinkle with sliced scallions for a pop of freshness.
Notes
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings. It disappears quickly!
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture if preferred.
- Don’t skip the olive oil misting. It helps the crunch stay intact!
- Marinate the chicken in the hot sauce overnight. This adds depth to the flavor.
- Swap seasonings based on your preference. Experimenting is half the fun!