Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 111 reviews

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a crowd-pleasing main-course featuring tender chicken bites, coated in a crispy cornflake crust and tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade honey BBQ sauce. It’s lighter than fried options, delightfully crunchy, and perfect for parties or family dinners.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: serves 8

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 5 cups (140g) corn flakes cereal, crushed lightly
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk

For the Honey BBQ Sauce

  • 3/4 cup (222g) your favorite BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s Original)
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey

Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup, then set it aside.
  2. Flour the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to a large bowl. Sprinkle the flour over them and stir well to coat each piece thoroughly. Set the floured chicken aside.
  3. Prepare Breading Stations: In a large bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, mixing well. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Set both bowls nearby for breading.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Working one piece at a time, dip each floured chicken bite into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then roll it in the cornflake mixture, ensuring an even, generous coating. Shake off any excess and place the breaded chicken onto the prepared baking sheet. Continue until all chicken pieces are coated.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through at the 9-10 minute mark to ensure even crisping. While the chicken bakes, proceed to make the sauce.
  6. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce: Combine BBQ sauce and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through and well-blended.
  7. Toss and Serve: Once baked, let the chicken cool for 5 minutes. Transfer the chicken bites to a large bowl, pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over top, and gently toss to coat each piece. Serve immediately while warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; reheat in the microwave until hot.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, crush the corn flakes just slightly rather than into a fine powder.
  • Swap honey for maple syrup to adjust the sweetness or accommodate allergies.
  • Boneless chicken thighs can be used for juicier bites.
  • Dip in ranch or blue cheese for added flavor.
  • To make ahead, bake the chicken and store the sauce separately. Toss together when ready to serve.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (about 5 ounces cooked chicken)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/baked-honey-bbq-popcorn-chicken-recipe/