Oven-Fried Southern Style Cinnamon Honey Chicken

The scent of cinnamon always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a place filled with warmth, love, and the promise of something delicious baking in the oven. While her specialty was cinnamon rolls that could melt even the coldest heart, she occasionally surprised us with savory dishes tinged with that same comforting spice. I remember one Sunday, she unveiled chicken with a glistening, honey-kissed glaze, its aroma a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory. This recipe captures a hint of that memory, combining the crispy satisfaction of fried chicken with the sweet embrace of cinnamon and honey, all achieved without a single drop of frying oil.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 3 lbs chicken, jointed in 8 pieces (make sure to use good quality chicken!)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon (good quality)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch freshly ground nutmeg
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/3 cup dried crushed breadcrumbs
• cooking spray
• 2 tablespoons oil (optional)

Sauce

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 pinches finely ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Equipment Needed

• Large roasting pan
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature is key to even cooking.
2. Lightly spray a large roasting pan with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and promote crispy browning.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk together thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Coat each piece of chicken well with the flour mixture. You can use chicken with or without skin – the choice is yours. If you prefer a slightly healthier option, remove the skin, but keep in mind that the skin adds extra flavor and crispness.
5. In a separate bowl, beat together the egg and milk. This mixture will act as a binder for the breadcrumbs.
6. Dredge the flour-coated chicken pieces in the egg mixture, and then immediately coat them in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.
7. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces skin side up (if using chicken with skin) in the prepared roasting pan. Ensure the pieces are not touching each other as this will allow for optimal crisping.
8. Spray the chicken pieces with cooking spray or sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of oil. This step helps to achieve that desirable “oven-fried” crispiness.
9. Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
10. While the chicken is baking, prepare the cinnamon honey sauce. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the butter, honey, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined. The lemon juice adds a touch of brightness that balances the sweetness of the honey.
11. After the chicken has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven and generously pour the cinnamon honey mixture over the pieces, ensuring each piece is well coated.
12. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear when pierced with a fork and the chicken is crisp and brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
13. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before coating them in the flour mixture.
• To prevent the breadcrumbs from becoming soggy, make sure the chicken is not overcrowded in the pan.
• If you want a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating it.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice in the honey sauce. It balances the sweetness and adds brightness.
• If you want to add a bit of kick to the recipe, you can try a pinch or two of cayenne (to taste) in the honey sauce, or perhaps some red pepper flakes!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this delightful oven-fried chicken hot, alongside classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread. A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. Note that reheating may slightly soften the crispy coating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1080 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	583 kcal	54%
Total Fat	64.9 g	99%
Saturated Fat	22.7 g	113%
Cholesterol	333.2 mg	111%
Sodium	1591.7 mg	66%
Total Carbohydrate	54.7 g	18%
Dietary Fiber	1.3 g	5%
Sugars	35.6 g	142%
Protein	68.2 g	136%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure the breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.
• Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder can add a unique twist.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the honey sauce.
• Try using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier result.
• Instead of honey, try using maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can, but be aware that they may cook faster and could become drier. Reduce the cooking time accordingly and monitor them closely.

Q: What if I don’t have dried crushed breadcrumbs?
A: You can use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier coating or make your own by toasting slices of bread in the oven and then crushing them into crumbs.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: You can coat the chicken in the flour mixture and breadcrumbs ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to add the honey sauce just before baking to prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soggy.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. However, the coating may become slightly soft upon thawing.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Fried Southern Style Cinnamon Honey Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and a nod to the comforting memories of home. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with the spices to create your own unique twist, and share it with those you love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful combination of crispy texture, sweet and savory flavors, and ease of preparation. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a truly special culinary creation. Pair it with a crisp Chardonnay or a refreshing iced tea for the perfect meal! Enjoy!