Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are a delightful snack that everyone will love! They are perfect for game days, parties, or as an easy weeknight dinner option. The unique combination of crispy chicken coated in a sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze makes them irresistible. Plus, since they are baked rather than fried, you can enjoy this tasty treat with less guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The cornflake coating provides an amazing crunch that stays crispy even after being coated in sauce.
- Flavor Packed: The sweet and tangy honey BBQ glaze enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, making each bite scrumptious.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or main dishes. Serve them with your favorite dips!
- Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying means fewer calories without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
You’ll need a few essential tools to make these delicious chicken bites. Having the right equipment helps ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: These provide a sturdy surface for evenly baking the chicken bites.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: They prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Large mixing bowls: Ideal for mixing ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the egg mixture smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 2 pounds (907g) 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 (60g/ml) milk
For the Honey BBQ Sauce
- 3/4 cup (222g) your favorite BBQ sauce (I like Sweet Baby Rays Original)
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey
- 1/4 cup (68g) ketchup
How to Make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set them aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating
Place the bite-sized pieces of chicken in a large bowl. Add the flour and stir until each piece is well coated. Set this aside while you prepare the cornflake coating.
Step 3: Mix Corn Flake Coating
In another large bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Bites
This step can get a bit messy! Have some paper towels handy. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Roll them generously in the cornflake mixture until fully coated. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for all chicken pieces.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the chicken bites for 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking for even crispiness. While they bake, you can prepare the honey BBQ sauce.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine your chosen BBQ sauce with honey and ketchup. Cook for about 5 minutes while whisking occasionally until warmed through.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Carefully transfer your baked chicken bites into a large bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over them and gently stir until all pieces are well-coated.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your baked honey BBQ chicken bites warm. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week; just reheat in the microwave until warmed through.
Enjoy these delicious bites at your next gathering or family dinner!
How to Serve Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether for a party or a cozy family dinner, these bites are sure to please everyone. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
As a Snack
- Perfect for game day gatherings, these chicken bites make an ideal finger food that everyone will enjoy.
With Dipping Sauces
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese for a flavor boost that complements the sweet glaze.
In a Salad
- Add the chicken bites to a salad for extra protein and crunch. They pair well with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
On Sliders
- Place the chicken bites on mini buns with lettuce and your favorite sauce for delicious sliders perfect for parties.
With Veggies
- Pair with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. This adds a refreshing crunch and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
How to Perfect Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
To achieve perfectly crispy Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites, keep these tips in mind. They ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
- Use fresh chicken: Fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts yield better texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
- Crush corn flakes well: The finer the corn flakes are crushed, the better they will adhere to the chicken, ensuring a crispier coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Space out your chicken bites on the baking sheets. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking.
- Flip halfway through baking: Turn the chicken bites midway through cooking for an evenly golden and crispy texture on all sides.
- Coat in sauce just before serving: For maximum crunchiness, toss the chicken in the honey BBQ sauce just before serving rather than letting them sit in it.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the coating mix to customize flavors according to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their flavor profile. Here are some great options:
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting pairing that kids and adults alike will love.
- Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken bites.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a healthier alternative with their natural sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Potato Salad: A classic side dish that adds creaminess and can be made ahead of time.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add color and nutrition while complementing the rich flavors of your main dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is simple yet elegant, absorbing any extra sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These make for great dipping into any leftover sauces while adding an extra touch of comfort food appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can make the coating too thick and heavy. Measure carefully to ensure a light, crispy texture.
- Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) for optimal results.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chicken pieces on one tray can prevent them from getting crispy. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Skipping the cooling time: Letting the chicken bites cool for a few minutes before serving allows the coating to crisp up. Don’t rush this step!
- Forgetting to shake off excess coating: Leaving too much cornflake mixture on will result in a soggy bite. Shake off any excess before baking for that perfect crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites in an airtight container.
- They last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
- Place cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites.
Can I use other sauces for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or even teriyaki sauce for a unique flavor twist.
How do I make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and corn flakes. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without gluten.
What sides pair well with Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites go great with salads, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking, then cook when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. These bites are perfect for game day snacks or an easy weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize the flavors and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (16 bites) 1x
Description
Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are a must-try snack that brings together crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy honey barbecue glaze. Perfect for game days, parties, or as an easy weeknight dinner, these bites are both delicious and guilt-free since they are baked instead of fried. The irresistible crunch from the cornflake coating and the flavor-packed glaze ensure that every bite is a delight. Plus, they’re simple to make with just a few ingredients, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (907g) 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 (60g/ml) milk
- 3/4 cup (222g) your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey
- 1/4 cup (68g) ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Coat chicken pieces in flour, then dip in a mixture of whisked eggs and milk.
- Roll the chicken in crushed corn flakes seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Arrange coated chicken on baking sheets and bake for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While baking, prepare the honey BBQ sauce by heating BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup in a saucepan.
- Toss baked chicken bites in the warm sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces (112g)
- Calories: 289
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 478mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
