Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both fun and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are a favorite in my home because they strike the perfect balance between crispy and sticky, making them irresistible. Whether it’s game day or just a busy weeknight, these bites are easy to whip up and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that feels indulgent but is baked instead of fried?

I adore how versatile this recipe is; it can fit right into any occasion. Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering or enjoy them as a quick dinner option with your favorite sides. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, even novice cooks can nail this recipe.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty bites—it’s practically guaranteed to be a hit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep these bites in advance for quick snacks throughout the week or party-ready appetizers.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and tangy honey BBQ glaze brings incredible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. Everything comes together beautifully for a delightful dish.

• 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 (I like Sweet Baby Rays Original)
• 1/4 cup (85g) honey
• 1/4 cup (68g) ketchup

Variations

One of the best parts about these Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites is how flexible the recipe can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the Protein: Use turkey or tofu if you’re looking for alternative protein options!
• Change Up the Coating: Try using panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
• Add Some Heat: Incorporate some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into your BBQ glaze if you like things spicy.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free corn flakes.

How to Make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that your chicken bites cook evenly and get that perfect golden color. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Place your bite-sized pieces of chicken in a large bowl. Adding flour first helps create a nice base layer for our delicious coating. Stir until each piece is fully coated; this will help keep the moisture in while baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Coating

In another bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture adds crunch and flavor. Set it aside while you whisk together the eggs and milk in a small bowl—this will act as our binding agent.

Step 4: Get Messy with Dipping

This part is super fun! Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off before rolling it generously in the cornflake mixture. It’s totally okay if things get a little messy; that just means you’re creating something delicious!

Step 5: Bake Your Bites

Arrange all coated chicken pieces on your prepared baking sheets. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, flipping once halfway through. This ensures they get crispy all around while cooking through perfectly.

Step 6: Make Your Sauce

While those bites are getting golden brown, grab a small saucepan. Combine your BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup over medium heat. Cook for about five minutes while whisking occasionally—that warm glaze will add so much flavor!

Step 7: Coat Your Chicken Bites

Once baked and slightly cooled, transfer those lovely chicken bites into a large bowl. Pour your warm honey BBQ sauce over them and gently stir to coat every piece evenly—this is where all the magic happens!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these tasty bites warm as they are or with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week—just reheat in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

And there you have it—your own batch of delightful Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites! Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve something yummy today!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Creating the perfect batch of Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites is easy with a few handy tips. Here are some insights to ensure your chicken bites turn out crispy and flavorful every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and new spices can make a significant difference in flavor compared to older, stale ingredients. Freshness enhances taste and ensures a satisfying crunch.
• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the chicken to cool for 5 minutes after baking helps maintain their crispy texture before adding the sauce. This brief wait keeps them from becoming soggy when coated.
• Adjust the spice level: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornflake mixture. This adjustment adds an exciting flavor dimension that complements the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.
• Experiment with sauces: While this recipe uses a classic BBQ sauce, feel free to try different varieties or even make your own homemade version! Different sauces can bring new flavors that keep this dish exciting.

How to Serve Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

These delightful chicken bites shine as a snack or meal centerpiece, inviting everyone to dig in! Here are some fun ways to present and enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an appealing crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These golden fries offer a slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken bites, making for an irresistible combination!
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, perfect for balancing out the richness of the honey BBQ glaze.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers served with creamy hummus provide a light and healthy complement to your meal.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed corn on the cob adds seasonal sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, your Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites will be a hit whether you’re hosting friends for game day or enjoying a cozy family dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy weeks. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy them whenever you need a quick snack or meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• After cooling, arrange the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites!

Can I use other types of chicken for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully, you can also use chicken thighs or tenders. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

What can I serve with Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

These tasty bites pair perfectly with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with fresh veggies and dip, coleslaw, or even a light salad. They’re great as part of a game day spread too!

How do I make the sauce for Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

The sauce is incredibly easy! Just combine your favorite BBQ sauce with honey and ketchup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, then drizzle over your chicken bites.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites as much as I do! They are not only easy to prepare but also bring so much joy to any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re serving them during game night or enjoying them as an after-school snack, I’m sure they’ll be a hit! Happy cooking!