Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and spicy. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch while the hot honey sauce adds a delightful kick, making every bite bursting with flavor. Not only is it healthier than traditional fried chicken, but it’s also simple to prepare with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe has got you covered. The addition of optional garnishes like fresh parsley or sesame seeds elevates it even further, creating an irresistible dish that you’ll want to make time and time again.

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your preferred heat level)

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for tang)

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh chopped parsley

• Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for added crunch)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
   In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
   In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
   In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
   Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.

3. Bake the Chicken:
   Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help the coating crisp up.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
   While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like a little tang, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce and stir to combine.

5. Glaze the Chicken:
   When the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. If you like extra sauce, you can toss the chicken in the sauce for more coverage.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Level: Adjust the level of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice tolerance.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the flour is replaced with a gluten-free alternative.

• Air Fryer Option: For even less oil, you can cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. You can also reheat it in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook fully.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Store the breaded chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

3. Can I use a different hot sauce for the honey sauce?

Yes, you can use any type of hot sauce you prefer, such as sriracha, buffalo sauce, or a tangy chili sauce, depending on your desired flavor.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.

5. Can I make the hot honey sauce without butter?

Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or another plant-based fat.

6. Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level. Alternatively, add fresh chopped chilies or hot pepper sauce to the glaze.

7. Can I freeze the chicken after cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

8. What are some side dish ideas to serve with this chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice pilaf.

9. Can I skip the garnish?

Yes, the garnish is optional, but it does add a nice touch of freshness and crunch. You can leave it out if you prefer.

10. Can I bake the chicken at a lower temperature?

For the crispiest result, it’s best to bake the chicken at 400°F. However, you can lower the temperature to 375°F if needed, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, offering a crispy texture and a spicy-sweet glaze that everyone will love. It’s a healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken, yet still packed with all the bold flavors. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!