Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

If you’re craving a crispy, crunchy chicken dish with a bold sweet and spicy flavor, look no further than Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken! This healthier, oven-baked version delivers the same crispy goodness as deep-fried chicken but with the added benefit of a sweet, tangy hot honey glaze that’s sure to excite your taste buds. Perfect for dinner, this dish comes together quickly and is packed with bold flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken combines the best of both worlds—crispy chicken coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that hits all the right notes. The coating is light and crispy thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, while the hot honey sauce adds a unique kick of heat with a touch of sweetness. It’s the perfect meal for those who enjoy a little spice with their savory dishes, and it’s healthier than frying, making it a great option for any night of the week.

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

Preheat the Oven:

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

Prepare the Chicken:

2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.

3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).

4. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.

5. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

6. Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.

Bake the Chicken:

7. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help the crust crisp up.

8. 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.

Make the Hot Honey Sauce:

9. 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.

10. For a tangy twist, you can add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and stir to combine.

Glaze the Chicken:

11. When the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. For extra coverage, you can toss the chicken in the sauce.

Garnish and Serve:

12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts, if desired.

13. Serve the crispy, hot honey chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes in the sauce. For a milder version, use a less spicy hot sauce or omit the red pepper flakes.

• Make it Sweet and Tangy: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to the hot honey sauce for a bit of tang to balance out the sweetness.

• Different Chicken Cuts: You can use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or wings instead of breasts for a more flavorful, juicy alternative.

• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

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 10-12 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option. For the best crispiness, reheat in the oven.

FAQs

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

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will add extra flavor and juiciness.

2. Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken in a little oil over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. However, baking is a healthier option.

3. Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just warm it up before drizzling it over the chicken.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese on the chicken?

Yes, provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese are great alternatives to add a melty, cheesy touch to the chicken.

5. Can I use a sugar substitute for the honey?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute such as agave nectar or maple syrup if you’re looking for a lower-sugar version. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

6. Can I make this dish without the hot sauce?

Yes, you can skip the hot sauce if you prefer a milder version of the honey sauce. You can still enjoy the sweet honey glaze on the chicken.

7. How do I ensure the panko breadcrumbs stay crispy?

Lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil before baking to help the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely in the oven.

8. Can I use a different type of breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, though the texture won’t be quite as crispy.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the hot honey sauce to increase the spice level.

10. What can I serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce. It’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken but still delivers that satisfying crunch and bold flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible taste. Try it today for a quick, flavorful meal that’s packed with personality!

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