Name: Delicious Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups corn flakes cereal (crushed); 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavors; adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon pepper (freshly cracked); 1 teaspoon paprika (for warmth and color); 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for savory depth); 1 teaspoon onion powder (to enhance flavor); 2 large eggs (for binding); 1 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and tang); 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into small cubes); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for initial coating); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite); 1/4 cup honey (for sweetness)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy chicken bite, especially when it’s drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of baked goodness wafting through the kitchen as you prepare a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites have quickly become my go-to for everything from casual movie nights to feeding unexpected guests.

I stumbled upon this gem when I was trying to come up with a healthier alternative to fried snacks. Combining the crunch of cornflakes with juicy chicken, and a sauce that dances between sweet and savory, it’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters adore. Plus, with just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have a flavorful homemade treat without the hassle of takeout or the guilt of fast food. Trust me, once you try these simple yet irresistible bites, they’ll be your new favorite crowd-pleaser!

Why Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Stand Out?

Simplicity, you can whip these up in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights. Crispy Crunch, the cornflake coating provides an irresistible texture that balances perfectly with the tender chicken. Flavor Explosion, the honey BBQ sauce is sweet and tangy, taking the taste to an entirely new level. Crowd-Pleaser, even picky eaters will come back for seconds! Versatile, serve them as appetizers or a main dish, they fit any occasion. Try them today and you’ll see why they’re a staple in my kitchen!

Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Ingredients

If you’re ready to dive into making these delicious bites, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Coating

Corn flakes cereal – crush them well for that perfect crunch.
Salt – to enhance the flavors; adjust to taste.
Pepper – freshly cracked gives the best flavor.
Paprika – adds a subtle warmth and color.
Chili flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat if you like it spicy!
Garlic powder – a must for that savory depth.
Onion powder – enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Binding

Eggs – helps the coating stick beautifully.
Buttermilk – adds moisture and a bit of tang to the chicken.

For the Chicken

Chicken breasts – cut into small cubes to ensure even cooking.
All-purpose flour – gives an initial coating that helps the egg stick.

For the Sauce

BBQ sauce – choose your favorite for the best taste.
Honey – offers that signature sweetness that makes these Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites irresistible!

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking and turn your kitchen into the happiest place on Earth!

How to Make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Mix the Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, salt, pepper, paprika, optional chili flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until fully blended. This is your binding mixture!
Coat the Chicken: Start by dipping each chicken piece into flour, ensuring they are well-coated. This helps the egg mixture stick during the next step.
Dip in Egg Mixture: Once floured, dip each chicken piece into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off before proceeding.
Cover with Cornflakes: Roll each chicken piece in the cornflakes mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick and crunchy layer adheres.
Arrange on Tray: Place the breaded chicken bites on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced out for even baking.
Bake to Perfection: Bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
Make the Sauce: While the chicken bites are baking, prepare the honey BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, mix the BBQ sauce and honey over medium heat, stirring until fully combined.
Coat with Sauce: Once the chicken bites are out of the oven, place them in a bowl and pour the honey barbecue sauce over them. Toss gently until every piece is beautifully coated.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites immediately for the best taste and crunch. Enjoy every last bite!

Optional: Serve with fresh veggies or a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Helpful Tricks for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Crush Cornflakes Well: Ensure the cornflakes are finely crushed to create a perfect crispy coating that clings to the chicken bites.
Proper Dipping Order: Always dip chicken in flour first, then egg, followed by the cornflake coating. This sequence prevents the coating from falling off while baking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: Space out the chicken bites on the baking tray to allow even heat circulation, which results in a crispy finish for your Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites.
Check Cooking Temperature: Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for a safe and delicious meal.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the BBQ sauce by adding spices or hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking!
Serve Immediately: These bites taste best right out of the oven, so serve them hot to maintain their crunchy texture!

Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Variations

Feel free to sprinkle in your creativity and make these chicken bites your very own with exciting variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free cornflakes for a delicious alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the coating for an addictive level of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the cornflake mixture for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese onto the cornflake coating for a gooey, savory layer.
Coconut Crunch: Swap regular cornflakes for crushed unsweetened coconut for a tropical flair and a unique texture.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Replace some honey in the sauce with Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy variation that dances on your palate.
Veggie Version: Use the coating on bite-sized zucchini or eggplant pieces for a delightful vegetarian option.
Baked Bonanza: Cook the chicken bites in an air fryer for an even crispier finish without using extra oil.

With these fun twists, you can keep your meals exciting and cater to the diverse tastes of your loved ones!

What to Serve with Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

These delightful bites are perfect for creating a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch of fries pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavor of the chicken bites, making every bite a treat.
Coleslaw: Refreshing and crisp, coleslaw adds a tangy crunch that complements the savory chicken while balancing out the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Their natural sweetness enhances the BBQ flavor, and the soft interior contrasts with the crispy bites for a delightful texture experience.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a perfect side, soaking up any extra honey BBQ sauce while providing a comforting touch to the meal.

These bites can also shine as an appetizer at gatherings, where they bring joy and flavor to any table!

Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh veggies adds crunch and freshness, providing a nutritious balance to your meal. Serve with a dip for added flavor!
Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers a rich contrast that makes the dish feel even more indulgent, great for a comforting family dinner.
Cucumber Salad: A light, zesty cucumber salad brings a refreshing element to your spread, cutting through the richness of the BBQ bites.
Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade perfectly complements the sweet and savory elements of the chicken, enhancing your dining experience with a refreshing drink.

Transform your meal with these delightful pairings, and watch your loved ones smile with every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store leftover Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain their deliciousness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Serving Tip: Consider serving them fresh after reheating for maximum flavor and crunch!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the breaded chicken pieces and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply follow the first five steps of the recipe and place the coated chicken bites on your parchment-lined tray; cover them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll still enjoy that crispy texture and delicious flavor without any extra hassle, making your weeknight meals just as delightful and stress-free!

Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Absolutely! Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Look for chicken that is pale pink without any dark spots or strong odor. If buying frozen chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for even results.

How should I store leftovers of Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
After enjoying your meal, let the chicken bites cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, they taste best when freshly baked!

Can I freeze Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked chicken bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat them from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.

What if my chicken bites come out soggy?
If your Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites turn out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding on the baking tray or not frying them long enough. Ensure they are spaced out on the tray for even heat circulation. If they’re still not crispy, you might consider broiling them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Are Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites safe for dogs?
It’s best to avoid giving these chicken bites to dogs. The seasoning and BBQ sauce may contain ingredients like garlic that can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet for suitable treat options for your furry friends!

Can I modify the ingredients for allergies?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, there are plenty of alternatives. Consider using gluten-free corn flakes or flour to cater to gluten sensitivity. For egg allergies, a mixture of ground flaxseed and water can serve as a great egg substitute! Just follow a 1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg needed.