Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving crispy, flavorful chicken without the need for frying. The hot honey glaze adds an exciting spicy-sweet contrast to the crunchy chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor. The best part? It’s baked, not fried, so it’s a healthier option without sacrificing any taste. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or as a special dish for family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust based on spice preference)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Set up a breading station: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat each chicken breast first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure an even, thick coating.

4. Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the chicken.

5. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

6. While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until combined and bring to a simmer for 1-2 minutes.

7. Once the chicken is baked, remove from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the chicken.

8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicier version: Add extra hot sauce or even some cayenne pepper to the hot honey sauce for more heat.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.

• Add herbs: For extra flavor, mix in some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro into the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken.

• Baked chicken thighs: If you prefer thighs, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To keep the chicken crispy, reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat it in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore its crunch.

FAQs

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

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check that they are fully cooked through.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. It’s best to bake it fresh for the crispiest results, though.

3. Can I freeze the breaded chicken before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken. Simply freeze the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet before storing them in a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or fries for a complete meal.

5. Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs for convenience. Panko breadcrumbs are the best option for extra crunch.

6. Can I adjust the level of heat in the hot honey sauce?

Absolutely! You can add more or less hot sauce to the honey mixture depending on your preference for spice. You can also use a milder hot sauce if you prefer a less intense heat.

7. Can I make the hot honey sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before drizzling it over the chicken.

8. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make it spicier, you can add more hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or even chili flakes to the hot honey sauce. Adjust the heat to suit your taste.

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

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken and ensure there is no pink meat inside.

10. Can I bake the chicken without the breadcrumbs for a low-carb option?

Yes, you can bake the chicken without the breadcrumbs for a low-carb or keto-friendly option. You can season the chicken with your favorite spices and bake it for a simpler version of this dish.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that offers a crispy, flavorful experience with a sweet and spicy twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s baked, not fried, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the added grease. Try it out today and experience the crispy, spicy, and sweet magic!