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homemade Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken. photo
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Oven Fried Southern Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken.

Crispy oven-fried popcorn chicken tossed in a buttery hot-honey garlic sauce for a sweet-heat finish.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 egg large egg
  • 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 1/4 cups corn flakes finely crushed (or use panko)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • kosher salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter
  • 4-6 cloves garlic chopped
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Beat the egg in a large bowl, add the cubed chicken, and toss to coat evenly.
  • In a separate bowl combine the crushed corn flakes, flour, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Dredge each piece of coated chicken through the corn flake mixture, pressing crumbs onto the chicken to fully cover.
  • Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
  • While the chicken finishes, make the hot honey sauce: melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat, add the chopped garlic and cook until the butter begins to brown and the garlic is golden.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the honey, 1–2 teaspoons cayenne (to taste), 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes until smooth.
  • Pour or drizzle the warm hot-honey sauce over the baked chicken and toss to coat while the sauce is warm so it thickens and adheres to the chicken.
  • Serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Large Bowl
  • medium bowl
  • small skillet
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • If you prefer extra sauce, double the hot honey recipe.