Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

These crispy Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are a delightful treat, perfect for any gathering or a quick weeknight meal. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter option without compromising on flavor. The crunchy coating is complemented by a sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze that everyone adores. Whether for game day or as an easy snack, these bites will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Snack: Great for parties, movie nights, or even as a main dish for dinner.
• Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying keeps these bites light while still providing that satisfying crunch.
• Leftover Friendly: They taste great even after a few days in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Large bowls
• Small saucepan
• Mixing utensils

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: These provide a sturdy surface for your chicken bites to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Large bowls: Necessary for mixing ingredients without making a mess.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for combining the honey BBQ sauce ingredients over heat.

Ingredients

To make these delightful baked honey BBQ chicken bites, you will need the following 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

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the bite-sized pieces of chicken in a large bowl. Add flour and stir to coat each piece evenly. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Coating Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine the cornflakes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Pieces

This next step gets your hands a little messy; have paper towels nearby!
* Dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
* Roll each piece generously in the cornflake mixture, shaking off any excess before placing them onto the prepared baking sheet.
* Repeat this process with all chicken pieces.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Bites

Bake in a preheated oven for about 18 minutes, flipping once halfway through cooking. While they bake, you can prepare the sauce in step 6. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine your chosen BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes while whisking occasionally until warmed through.

Step 7: Coat Chicken with Sauce

Carefully place the baked chicken bites into a large bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over them and gently stir to coat all pieces evenly. Serve warm!

Step 8: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through before serving again.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites!

How to Serve Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these chicken bites can be served in several delightful styles.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking during gatherings or parties.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pair the bites with additional sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or extra honey BBQ for variety.

On a Salad

• Toss the chicken bites over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a satisfying salad option.

In Tacos

• Place the baked bites in soft tortillas with slaw and avocado for a fun twist on tacos.

With Veggies

• Serve alongside fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.

How to Perfect Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Perfecting your Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites ensures they are crispy and flavorful every time. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts will yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid using previously frozen chicken if possible.
• Crush Corn Flakes Properly: Ensure the corn flakes are crushed into small pieces but not powdery. This will help create that perfect crispy coating.
• Don’t Skip the Eggs: The egg wash is crucial for helping the cornflake coating adhere well to the chicken.
• Flip Halfway Through Baking: Flipping the chicken bites halfway through cooking ensures even crispiness on both sides.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven’s accuracy, check for golden brown color to determine doneness rather than just relying on time alone.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

These baked honey BBQ chicken bites pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor and make your meal complete. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balance to the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken bites.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries provide a sweet contrast that complements the honey BBQ sauce beautifully.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a summery touch that’s perfect alongside these tasty bites.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort food vibes that pair perfectly with chicken bites.
5. Potato Salad: A classic cold potato salad can bring creaminess to your plate while keeping things light.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and health benefits to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dry bites. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re golden brown.
• Skipping the Coating: The coating is what gives these bites their crunch. Be sure to thoroughly coat each piece in flour, egg, and cornflakes for the best texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Preheating ensures even cooking. Always make sure your oven reaches the right temperature before placing your chicken inside.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: A too-thick or too-thin sauce can ruin the dish. Adjust the honey BBQ sauce’s consistency by adding water or simmering longer if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enjoy within 1 week for optimal freshness.

Freezing Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Best consumed within 3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can make these bites with turkey or even beef. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I serve with Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

These bites pair well with fresh salads, dipping sauces, or even as part of a platter with veggies and cheese.

How can I customize the BBQ sauce?

Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or using different flavored sauces based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free corn flakes.

Final Thoughts

Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. They’re perfect as an appetizer or snack, and you can easily customize them with your favorite flavors. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy crispy bites that everyone will love!