Irresistible Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Recipe
There’s something so comforting about a plate of crispy snacks, isn’t there? These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. They’re baked, which makes them a lighter option for those who crave that satisfying crunch without the guilt. Whether you’re hosting friends for game day or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, these bites are sure to impress everyone at the table.
What I love most about this recipe is how the sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze clings to each piece of chicken, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, they’re kid-approved and perfect for sharing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
– Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s game night or a family dinner, these bites are always a hit.
– Healthier choice: Baked instead of fried, they’re lighter but still satisfy that crispy craving.
– Customizable: You can easily tweak the flavors to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
– Great leftovers: These bites hold up well in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create these tasty Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites.
For the Chicken Bites
– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 5 cups 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 milk
For the Honey BBQ Sauce
– 3/4 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I like Sweet Baby Rays Original)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
Variations
One of the best things about cooking is having the flexibility to switch things up! Here are some fun variations you might try:
– Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless turkey breast or even tofu for a plant-based version.
– Change up the crunch: Instead of corn flakes, try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels for a different texture.
– Add some spice: Mix in cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to give these bites an extra kick.
– Experiment with sauces: Try different flavors of BBQ sauce or even teriyaki for a unique twist.
How to Make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures your chicken bites will start cooking immediately when placed inside. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the bite-sized pieces of chicken in a large bowl and add flour. Stir well to coat each piece evenly. Coating the chicken helps create that desirable crunch when baked.
Step 3: Create Your Coating Mixture
In another bowl, combine crushed corn flakes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture will provide both flavor and crunch. Set aside while you whisk together eggs and milk in a small bowl.
Step 4: Coat Each Piece
Now comes the slightly messy but fun part! Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first—allowing any excess to drip off—then roll it generously in the cornflake mixture. Place each coated piece onto your prepared baking sheet and repeat until all chicken pieces are coated.
Step 5: Bake
Pop those baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking so they crisp up nicely on both sides. During this time, you can prepare the sauce.
Step 6: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup. Cook for about five minutes while whisking occasionally until it’s well blended and warmed through. This sauce is where all that sweet flavor comes from!
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once your chicken bites are done baking, allow them to cool for about five minutes before transferring them into a large bowl. Pour that warm honey BBQ sauce on top and gently stir until each piece is coated evenly.
Step 8: Serve
Enjoy these delicious bites warm! They’re perfect as an appetizer or paired with veggies for an easy meal. And don’t worry if you have leftovers; they keep well in the fridge for up to one week—just reheat them until warmed through.
Now you’re ready to enjoy some delightful Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites! Happy cooking!
Pro Tips for Making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Making these baked honey BBQ chicken bites is not only fun but also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality BBQ sauce can make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for sauces with natural ingredients for the best taste.
– Don’t skimp on the coating: Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated in both the egg mixture and the cornflake mixture. This will help achieve that crunchy texture you’re looking for.
– Adjust the spice level: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture. It adds a nice kick!
– Bake on two sheets: Using two baking sheets allows for better air circulation, helping the chicken bites cook evenly and get crispy all around.
– Keep an eye on cooking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How to Serve Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
These delightful chicken bites are versatile and can be served in various ways that everyone will love. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.
Garnishes
– Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
– Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
– Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley brightens up the plate beautifully.
Side Dishes
– Sweet potato fries: Their sweetness pairs perfectly with the honey BBQ flavor.
– Coleslaw: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the chicken bites.
– Veggie sticks with dip: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks with ranch or hummus offer a nice crunch alongside your bites.
– Rice or quinoa salad: A light salad can complement these bites wonderfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping is a great way to enjoy these delicious chicken bites throughout the week without any fuss. Here’s how to manage leftovers wisely!
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftover chicken bites to cool completely before storing them.
– Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing
– To freeze, place cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe bag.
– They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label them with the date!
Reheating
– For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
– Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until hot, but this may result in less crispiness.
FAQs
If you have any questions about making or serving these baked honey BBQ chicken bites, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered:
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What if I don’t have corn flakes?
If corn flakes aren’t available, crushed panko breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can work well as alternatives while still providing that delightful crunch.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour and gluten-free corn flakes or breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up these delectable baked honey BBQ chicken bites! They’re not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with loved ones at gatherings or simply enjoying during a cozy night at home. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll be met with smiles all around!
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and coat with flour.
- Combine crushed corn flakes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in another bowl.
- Dip chicken in egg mixture, then roll in cornflake mixture and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for about 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup; cook for about five minutes.
- Combine baked chicken with the honey BBQ sauce in a bowl and stir to coat.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or with veggies for a meal.
