What makes the cornflake-Parmesan crust unique compared to traditional breadcrumbs?

The cornflake-Parmesan crust creates a thicker, crunchier coating than traditional breadcrumbs and holds up better under the honey hot dressing. The Parmesan adds savory depth, while the coarse cornflake texture delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Can I use an air fryer instead of baking the chicken?

Yes. Air frying at 400°F for 12–15 minutes produces extra-crispy chicken with less oil than oven baking. It’s also faster and helps maintain the crunch of the cornflake crust.

Why use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Boneless chicken thighs stay juicier during cooking and pair exceptionally well with the sweet and spicy honey hot dressing. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, but thighs offer more flavor and moisture.

How can I adjust the spice level of the honey hot dressing?

You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili flakes, hot sauce, or smoked paprika. Start mild and gradually add spice, tasting as you go, while balancing with extra honey if needed.

What is the best way to keep the salad crispy for meal prep?

Store the chicken, greens, and dressing separately in airtight containers. Assemble the salad just before eating and add crunchy toppings at the last minute to prevent sogginess.

Can this honey hot chicken salad be made gluten-free?

Yes. Use certified gluten-free cornflakes or crushed rice cereal for the coating and ensure all seasonings and sauces are gluten-free.

How does this salad compare nutritionally to classic chicken salads?

This salad is lighter than traditional mayo-based chicken salads, offering high protein, fewer calories, and healthier fats from olive oil, along with antioxidants from honey and leafy greens.

What is the best way to reheat leftover cornflake chicken?

Reheat the chicken on a wire rack in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Can I substitute blue cheese with another topping?

Yes. Feta cheese, toasted nuts, or dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast work well. The honey hot dressing provides enough flavor even without cheese.

Why massage romaine lettuce before assembling the salad?

Lightly massaging romaine with olive oil strengthens the leaves, helping them resist wilting when topped with warm chicken and dressing.

Honey Hot Chicken Salad: 40-Minute Bold, Addictive Dinner

Description

A bold and satisfying Honey Hot Chicken Salad made with crispy cornflake-crusted chicken, fresh greens, and a sweet spicy honey-hot dressing. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Cornflakes, crushed
Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Eggs
Romaine lettuce, chopped
Shredded carrots
Cucumber, sliced
Avocado, sliced
Honey
Hot sauce
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat the oven or air fryer and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Season the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Dip the chicken into beaten eggs, then coat evenly with crushed cornflakes mixed with Parmesan.
Bake or air fry the chicken until golden, crispy, and fully cooked.
Whisk honey, hot sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice to make the honey hot dressing.
Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
Assemble the salad with romaine, carrots, cucumber, and avocado.
Top with crispy chicken and drizzle with honey hot dressing before serving.

Notes

For extra heat, add chili flakes or spicy honey to the dressing.
Store chicken, greens, and dressing separately for meal prep.
Use gluten-free cornflakes if needed.
Chicken thighs provide juicier results, but breasts work well for a leaner option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Baking or Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 421
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 95mg