This Southern Hot Honey Fried Chicken delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Juicy, seasoned chicken is coated in a crispy blend of crushed cornflakes and breadcrumbs, then baked until golden brown and drizzled with a sticky, sweet-spicy hot honey sauce. It’s packed with bold flavor, crunch, and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for dinner, game day, or a flavorful twist on traditional fried chicken—without deep frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together everything you love about fried chicken with a healthier, oven-baked twist. The cornflake and breadcrumb coating gives you maximum crunch without needing a deep fryer. The hot honey glaze adds a beautiful balance of sweetness and heat, taking the flavor profile to another level. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving something comforting, this dish never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For The Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
• 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose seasoning blend (such as “On Everything” or similar), divided
• 1 tablespoon hot honey (for marinating)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup almond milk (or whole milk/heavy cream)
• Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing

For The Hot Honey Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup hot honey (or raw honey for a milder version)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This helps the chicken crisp on all sides during baking.
2. Clean and pat dry the chicken pieces using paper towels. Place them in a large bowl.
3. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon each of salt, smoked paprika, and all-purpose seasoning. Add 1 tablespoon of hot honey and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 5–10 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate and marinate for 1–2 days.
4. Prepare three separate bowls:
   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and almond milk.
   • Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, and remaining 1 teaspoon each of salt, smoked paprika, and seasoning blend.
5. Lightly coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Dip the floured chicken into the egg-milk mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
7. Roll the chicken in the breadcrumb-cornflake mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick. Place coated pieces on the wire rack, spacing them about an inch apart.
8. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. If desired, broil for an additional 5–10 minutes to increase crispiness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
10. While the chicken bakes, make the hot honey sauce. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add hot honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
11. Once the chicken is finished baking, remove from the oven and spoon the hot honey sauce generously over each piece. Serve immediately.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour, breadcrumbs, and cornflakes to make the entire recipe gluten-free.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook the coated chicken in an air fryer at 390°F for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Milder Version: Use raw honey in place of hot honey and reduce the cayenne in the sauce.
• Extra Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey glaze for an extra kick.
• Alternative Proteins: Try this recipe with boneless chicken tenders, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
• Different Coatings: Use crushed crackers, panko, or cornmeal in place of cornflakes for a different crunch.
• Buttermilk Marinade: For even more tender chicken, marinate overnight in buttermilk before proceeding with the recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Reheat the hot honey sauce separately and drizzle it over the reheated chicken just before serving.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Thighs, drumsticks, and wings work best because they remain juicy during baking and hold the crispy coating well.

Can I make this recipe without honey?

You can substitute maple syrup or agave for a different type of sweetness, though the signature flavor of hot honey will be missed.

How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The heat level is moderate. You can adjust it easily by using less cayenne or choosing a milder honey.

Can I deep fry the chicken instead of baking?

Yes. If you prefer, you can deep fry the chicken at 350°F for about 12–14 minutes until golden and cooked through.

What does the cornflake coating add?

Crushed cornflakes create a light, crispy crust that mimics deep frying while keeping the chicken oven-baked and less greasy.

How can I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is dry before seasoning, use a flour base, and firmly press the coating onto each piece before baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before baking. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored.

Is almond milk necessary for the egg wash?

No. You can use any milk you prefer—whole milk, buttermilk, or even heavy cream work just as well.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts can be used. Adjust the baking time to about 25–30 minutes depending on thickness.

What sides go well with hot honey fried chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Southern Hot Honey Fried Chicken is a flavorful, crispy, and irresistible meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to satisfy. With its crunchy coating, juicy interior, and spicy-sweet glaze, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, it delivers both comfort and bold flavor in every bite.

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