Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick. The recipe is easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and gives you the satisfaction of deep-fried chicken without all the oil. The hot honey glaze adds a burst of flavor, making this dish irresistible for spice lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s baked, not fried, making it a healthier option without sacrificing crunch.
• The hot honey glaze gives a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
• Minimal ingredients are needed, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser for game nights, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal.
• Easy to customize with different spice levels and seasonings.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Hot honey
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set aside.
2. Set up a breading station with three bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the egg, followed by coating it in the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to help the chicken get crispy.
5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey glaze by heating hot honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
7. Once the chicken is done, drizzle the hot honey glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35–40 minutes
• Total time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

• Spice it up: If you prefer extra heat, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or increase the amount of hot honey.
• Milder version: Reduce the amount of hot honey or use a milder variety of honey to cut down on the heat.
• Different cuts: This recipe works well with chicken breasts, wings, or even chicken tenders for a more kid-friendly option.
• Air fryer option: You can air-fry the chicken at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To keep the chicken crispy, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, or use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The glaze has a medium level of spice, but you can adjust it by using more or less hot honey.

Can I use store-bought hot honey?

Yes, you can use store-bought hot honey to save time.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar crunch.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Is it possible to bake this chicken ahead of time?

You can bake the chicken in advance, but it’s best to add the hot honey glaze just before serving.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes are great options to serve alongside this chicken.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the hot honey glaze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Ensure the chicken is spaced out on the baking sheet, and drizzle with a little oil to promote crispiness.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.

How do I make homemade hot honey?

To make homemade hot honey, simply heat honey with red pepper flakes or hot sauce until well combined.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The perfect balance of crispy coating and sweet-spicy glaze makes it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken or just want a flavorful meal, this recipe is a must-try.

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