Name: Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 cups crushed cornflakes; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 tbsp hot sauce; 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs (sliced); Olive oil (for drizzling); ½ cup hot sauce; 6 tbsp salted butter; 1 –2 tsp seasoned salt; ¾ tsp chipotle chili powder; ½ tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tbsp honey; Sliced green onions; Ranch or blue cheese dressing

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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.

What I love most? It’s baked—not fried! That means all the crispy texture without the guilt. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a shareable snack for game night, it’s a dish that wins every single time. Trust me, you’ll make it once and crave it forever!

Ingredients for Maximum Flavor and Crunch

This recipe is built on simple, delicious ingredients that pack a punch.

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.

Note: This recipe serves about 4 people and works wonderfully for dinner or snacks.

Fun Variations to Try

Easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary preferences or taste!

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornflakes to make the dish suitable for gluten-intolerant eaters.
Dairy-Free Twist: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use dairy-free butter in the sauce.
Protein Alternatives: Try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Lower Heat Version: Reduce the cayenne and chipotle chili powder for a milder sauce.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need

Make sure you have these tools on hand for an easy cooking process.

Food processor: For crushing the cornflakes.
Mixing bowls: To prepare the dredge and sauce.
Baking sheet with parchment paper: Prevents sticking while ensuring perfectly baked chicken.

How to Make Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?

This recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat! Just follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Cornflake Coating

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.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly

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.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

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!

Step 4: Whip Up the Sauce

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.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

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!

Tricks for Perfect Results Every Time

These personal tips have helped me nail this recipe every time I make it.

Double Dip for Extra Crunch: Love super crispy chicken? Coat each piece twice to create even more crunch. It’s worth the extra effort!
Space Out the Chicken: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. This ensures even baking and maximum crispiness.
Make It Fresh: Freshly crush the cornflakes and shred your own Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Honey Buffalo Chicken?

This dish is amazingly versatile and complements a wide variety of sides.

Classic Wing Pairings: Serve with celery and carrot sticks alongside ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce for the ultimate wing-inspired experience.
Game Night Spread: Add crispy fries or onion rings for a comforting, hearty snack your guests will rave about.
Balanced Dinner Option: Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a glimpse at the nutritional highlights per serving of this recipe.

Calories: 442
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 25g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe works perfectly for meal prep or saving leftovers!

Make Ahead

Prepare the coating mixture and dredged chicken earlier in the day. Keep them refrigerated separately and assemble them just before baking.

Refrigerating Leftovers

Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing Prep

Freeze uncooked, coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This baked crunchy honey buffalo chicken is a guaranteed fan-favorite!

Healthier Alternative: All the crunch of fried chicken without the extra calories or grease.
Bold Sweet & Spicy Flavor: That honey buffalo sauce is absolutely addictive.
Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect as a family dinner or showstopper snack for entertaining anytime.
Quick and Easy: No frying required, and it’s prepped and ready in no time.
Customizable Options: Easily adjust it to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Get your oven ready because this dish is calling your name! Baked crunchy honey buffalo chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and spicy that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy every bite!