Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken brings together the best of both worlds: crispy, crunchy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick. The heat from the hot honey complements the crunch from the breading, creating a delicious contrast in every bite. Plus, baking the chicken makes it a healthier alternative to frying, while still achieving that perfect crispy texture. It’s a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or serving to guests at a gathering.

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup hot honey (adjust based on your spice preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
While the chicken is baking, heat the hot honey in a small saucepan over low heat, just until it’s warmed through and slightly runny.
Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the hot honey over the crispy chicken breasts.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Honey: If you want more heat, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the hot honey sauce.
Different Meat: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Crispier Coating: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Sweet and Tangy: Substitute the hot honey with a mix of honey and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

FAQs

Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can fry the chicken if you prefer. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness to the dish, and they can be substituted for chicken breasts in this recipe.

How do I make the hot honey?

Hot honey is simply honey mixed with chili flakes or hot sauce. You can heat the honey and add chili flakes or use a pre-made hot honey product.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on how much hot honey you use. If you want to reduce the heat, you can use a milder honey or reduce the amount of hot honey.

Can I make the breading ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breading (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Coat the chicken right before baking.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken. Place it on a baking sheet in the freezer, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag once frozen. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I use a different type of sweetener for the hot honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor, though the consistency might vary slightly.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make the dish lighter, you can use a smaller amount of olive oil and bake the chicken at a higher temperature to reduce the amount of oil absorbed. You can also use a low-calorie or sugar-free hot honey.

What side dishes go well with this chicken?

This baked crunchy hot honey chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. It also goes great with rice or a side of coleslaw.

Conclusion

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a fantastic combination of crispy chicken and spicy-sweet honey sauce. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!