Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Craving crispy, bite-sized chicken coated in a sticky-sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze? Look no further than Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken! This recipe combines juicy chicken bites with a flavorful crust and a rich honey BBQ sauce that clings to every piece. Perfect for game day, a family-friendly dinner, or a casual snack, these chicken bites are healthier than their fried counterparts without compromising taste or crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative: Baked to golden perfection, skipping the excess oil while keeping the crunch.
2. Customizable: Adjust the BBQ sauce to your liking—spicier, smokier, or sweeter!
3. Crowd-Pleaser: Great as an appetizer, party snack, or even a main dish paired with sides.
4. Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and easy steps make this recipe weeknight-friendly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top (this allows air circulation for crispier chicken).
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.

Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station

1. In the first bowl, add flour.
2. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
3. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered.
3. Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place each piece on the prepared wire rack.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

1. While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Toss the Chicken in Sauce

1. Once the chicken is baked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss gently until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Arrange the honey BBQ popcorn chicken on a platter.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds, if desired.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Serving Suggestions

1. Dipping Sauces: Ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra honey BBQ sauce.
2. Side Dishes: Pair with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad.
3. As a Meal: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted veggies for a complete dinner.

Tips for Success

1. Use a Wire Rack: Ensures air circulates around the chicken, making it crispier.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Space the chicken pieces apart on the rack to allow even baking.
3. Customize the Sauce: Adjust honey or hot sauce to suit your sweetness or spice preference.
4. Make Ahead: Bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey BBQ: Add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the BBQ sauce for a spicy twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
3. Air Fryer Version: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Buffalo Style: Swap BBQ sauce for a mixture of hot sauce and melted butter for tangy buffalo popcorn chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Cooking Spray: This step ensures the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy in the oven.
2. Not Preheating the Oven: An evenly hot oven is crucial for perfect results.
3. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs work great! They’re juicier and add extra flavor.

Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture for a dairy-free version.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky, tangy BBQ sauce pairs well with the honey for balanced flavor, but feel free to use your favorite.

Pairing Suggestions

Drinks:

• Lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing contrast.
• Light beer or a smoky red wine for a more adult pairing.

Appetizers:

• Loaded potato skins or mozzarella sticks for a hearty start.

Conclusion

This Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves crispy chicken with bold flavors. Perfectly coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ glaze, these bite-sized pieces are irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack or a dinner centerpiece, they’re guaranteed to impress. Customize the flavors to suit your taste, and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, saucy goodness in every bite!

Yield: 4

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Print

Craving crispy, bite-sized chicken coated in a sticky-sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze? Look no further than Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken! This recipe combines juicy chicken bites with a flavorful crust and a rich honey BBQ sauce that clings to every piece. Perfect for game day, a family-friendly dinner, or a casual snack, these chicken bites are healthier than their fried counterparts without compromising taste or crunch.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
   
2. Prepare the Coating
   Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:
   Bowl 1: Flour
   Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   
3. Coat the Chicken
   Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
   Finally, coat the chicken in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
   
4. Bake the Chicken
   Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
   Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
   
5. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce
   While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce:
   In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine BBQ sauce, honey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and chili powder (if using).
   Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until warm and slightly thickened.
   
6. Toss and Serve
   Once the chicken is baked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
   Pour the warm Honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat.
   
7. Garnish and Enjoy
   Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Notes

Crispier Option: For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking.

Spice It Up: Add hot sauce to the Honey BBQ sauce for a sweet and spicy twist.

Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Toss together just before serving.