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Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

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This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken offers a crispy texture with a spicy-sweet glaze. It’s healthier than fried chicken and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or to impress guests.

Ingredients

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

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)

Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (optional, for added crunch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. 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.
  3. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and then coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
  4. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help crisp up the coating.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
  6. 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 melts and the sauce is smooth. Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy kick, if desired.
  7. Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. For extra sauce, toss the chicken in the sauce.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Adjust the spicy level by modifying the amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
  • The chicken can also be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

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