Name: Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 3 cups finely crushed corn flakes; 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; extra virgin olive oil, for brushing; 6 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons honey; 2-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; kosher salt

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of flavors—crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick—then this Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Chicken is a must-try. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for its simplicity and delicious outcome, impressing guests every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of crunchy cornflake coating and sweet hot honey sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The versatility of using either chicken breasts or thighs allows you to tailor the recipe to your preference.

Ingredient Notes:

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Provides the base for the dish, and skin-on or off can be used depending on your preference.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
Corn flakes and whole wheat flour: Create a crispy coating for the chicken.
Hot Honey: A mixture of butter, honey, and spices that adds a sweet and spicy glaze to the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk and salt.
Coat the chicken in a mixture of crushed corn flakes, flour, and thyme.
Bake the chicken until crispy and golden brown.
Prepare the hot honey sauce by melting butter and honey with spices.
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken before serving.

Helpful Tips:

For extra crispy chicken, double coat the chicken in the cornflake mixture.
Swap out the spices in the hot honey sauce to customize the level of heat to your liking.
Store any leftover hot honey sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour to ensure tenderness.
Brush the chicken with olive oil before baking to help achieve a crispy crust.
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the hot honey sauce based on your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a cold beer for the perfect Southern-inspired dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cereal for the coating? Yes, you can substitute crushed cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
How can I make the chicken gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and ensure the corn flakes are gluten-free.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it? Yes, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Is the hot honey sauce very spicy? The spice level can be adjusted by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper used.

Conclusion:

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try this flavorful and satisfying Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Chicken recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its crispy coating and irresistible hot honey glaze. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!