Crispy Jalapeno-Honey Chicken w/ Tomato Corn Confetti

Right about this time in South Carolina, the mosquitos come out in full force!  Last night we were enjoying a nice dinner outside when we were attacked by a swarm of angry blood thirsty insects.  “Come on, guys!  We just got our steaks off the grill!  Give us a minute!”, I shouted.  They ignored me and continued their feast and we were forced to move inside.

If you’re like me, I have a passion for grilling season...I love everything on the grill...just reminds me of summer!   So when the bugs attack, it’s a huge bummer for me.  So todays’ recipe still has the essence of a summery meal, without the grilling involved.  This one can be prepared inside your home so you don’t need to put on your mosquito nets to get out there to cook.

I liked this recipe because it has that crunchy exterior without a crazy amount of oil.  You could also skip the pan-fry all together and just bake the breaded chicken {of course it won’t be as crispy but will still be tasty!}.  I also loved the spicy-sweetness of the honey and jalapeno -- who doesn’t love this combination?!  So when the bugs are swarming outside your door, trying to bust through, or it’s 93 degrees outside at 7pm and the thought of heating up the grill makes you want to stick your head in the freezer, try this recipe!  All the fun of summer without leaving the AC!

Crispy Jalapeno-Honey Chicken with Tomato Corn Confetti

2 tbsp honey

2 tbsp finely chopped fresh jalapeno

1 large egg

3/4 c. unseasoned dry bread crumbs

1/4 c. all purpose flour

4 tsp Old Bay Seasoning

1 tbsp dried parsley flakes

6 boneless, skinless, chicken breast halves

2 tbsp EVOO

1 recipe Tomato Corn Confetti

garnish: fresh jalapeno slices

1. Combine honey, jalapeno and egg.  On separate plate, mix breadcrumbs, flour, Old Bay, parsley.  Dip chicken in honey mixture.  Coat with breadcrumb mixture.
2. Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat.  Cook chicken 5 to 7 minutes per side.  Serve with Tomato Corn Confetti

Tomato Corn Confetti

3 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped

1/2 c. thawed frozen whole kernel corn

1 green onion, thinly sliced

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp honey

1 tsp Old Bay

1 tsp finely chopped jalapeno

Combine all ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.