Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

If you’re looking for a delicious finger food that everyone can enjoy, look no further than these Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites! They are crispy, sticky, and oh-so-satisfying. I love making these bites for family gatherings or even just as a quick snack during the week. They come together easily and fill the house with an irresistible aroma. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can feel good about indulging!

These little treasures are perfect for game day spreads or a cozy movie night at home. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delightful dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These chicken bites are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Kids love dipping them in sauce!
• Make Ahead: Prep them in advance and bake when you’re ready for a warm, tasty treat. Perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile Flavor: The sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze brings out fantastic flavors that work perfectly for any occasion.
• Healthy Twist: Baked instead of fried means fewer calories without skimping on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites, you won’t need anything too fancy—just some pantry staples and fresh chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you prefer. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add spice: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the coating mixture for a spicy kick.
• Change the coating: Replace corn flakes with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to use a different BBQ sauce or mix it up with teriyaki or sweet chili sauce for unique flavors.

How to Make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that the chicken bites get that lovely golden crust. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss the bite-sized pieces of chicken with flour until they are well coated. This step is crucial because it helps create that crispy outer layer we all love!

Step 3: Mix Your Coating

Next, combine the crushed corn flakes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in another bowl. This flavorful mixture will be what makes our chicken bites so delicious!

Step 4: Dip and Roll

This is where it gets fun! In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first and then roll it in the cornflake mixture until it’s fully coated. Place them on your prepared baking sheet—get ready for some messy hands!

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Bake those beautiful bites in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even crispiness! Let them cool for about five minutes after baking; this helps set their shape.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

While those bites are baking, prepare your honey BBQ sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine your BBQ sauce, honey, and ketchup. Cook while whisking occasionally until it’s warmed through—about five minutes will do.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once your chicken bites have cooled slightly, place them in a large bowl and pour that warm honey BBQ sauce over them. Gently stir to coat every bite evenly—so delicious! Serve warm with extra sauce on the side if desired.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

Enjoy these Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites at your next gathering or simply as an easy weeknight dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

These crispy bites are sure to impress your family and friends, but a few tips can make them even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken breasts and high-quality BBQ sauce. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a more tender texture.
• Crush Corn Flakes Well: Make sure to crush the corn flakes into small pieces. This creates a better coating that sticks to the chicken and gives it that perfect crunch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between each chicken bite on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring they bake up crispy rather than steaming.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spice blend! Adding cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs like oregano can give your chicken bites a unique twist that suits your taste.
• Let Them Rest After Baking: Allowing the chicken to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the coating set and makes it easier to coat with sauce without it becoming soggy.

How to Serve Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

These chicken bites are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways, enhancing any gathering or meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch, making your dish visually appealing while adding an extra layer of texture.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also add a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the honey BBQ flavor.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots brings crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the chicken bites.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn is an excellent summer side that enhances outdoor gatherings while adding a delightful sweetness alongside your savory bites.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the dish.

Enjoy serving these tasty Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites at your next gathering or as part of an easy weeknight dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time, making them an ideal option for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled chicken bites in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow chicken bites to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, about 30 seconds at a time, until warmed through.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites!

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

Absolutely! While chicken is the classic choice, you can use turkey or even plant-based options like tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times as needed.

How do I make Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free corn flakes. Always check the labels of your sauces as well!

What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

Some great dipping sauces include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Baked Honey BBQ Chicken Bites as much as I do! They are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will surely please everyone at your table. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy dinner night in, these bites are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!