Chicken is almost always a safe bet in the context of protein for even the pickiest of eaters. I figure this stems from the fact that chicken is relatively mild in its flavour; thus, one can do whatever one wishes in terms of flavour, using spices and other ingredients. If you factor this in with the versatility of chicken in respect to its many cuts and uses, chicken is a bit of a superhero in the meat realm.
I came across a recipe for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken from halfbakedharvest.com, and because it looks and sounds so incredibly appetizing, I had to share it with all of you. Check it out.
“Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
“Ingredients
- 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten free, if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Hot Honey
- fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- sea salt
“Instructions
“1. Preheat the oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
“2. In a food processor, combine the cornflakes, parmesan, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can crush the crumbs in a ziplock bag by stepping on them. Dump the crumbs into a shallow bowl.
“3. Beat the eggs in a bowl, add the hot sauce and chicken, and toss well to coat.
“3. Dredge the chicken through the crumbs, covering fully. Place on the prepared baking sheet. For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back through the eggs, then through the crumbs a 2nd time. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until crisp all around.
“4. Just before the chicken is done cooking, make the sauce. In a sauce pot, warm together the honey, hot sauce, cayenne, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt.
“5. Drizzle the warm sauce over the chicken. Top with herbs. If the sauce thickens, warm for 5 seconds in the microwave. Enjoy!” the recipe states.
The idea of honey and chicken might have your eyebrows raising, but don’t knock it before you try it.
Photo by Kevin kevin on Unsplash