If you’re looking for a dish that combines the irresistible combination of crispy, crunchy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, healthier than deep-fried alternatives, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will impress your guests with its standout qualities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, it offers all the crunch without the extra calories.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of honey and hot sauce gives you that sweet and spicy flavor everyone loves.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite sides like salads or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Appeals to Everyone: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this deliciously sticky chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, having the right tools can make your experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Shallow dishes (for breading)
• Whisk or fork (for beating eggs)
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking and helps achieve that crispy texture.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
• Shallow dishes: Allows for easy breading of the chicken without mess.

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)

How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy coating.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture. Then dip in the egg and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

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. Bake for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Make Hot Honey Sauce

While baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat until smooth.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

When done baking, remove chicken from oven. Drizzle hot honey sauce over top. Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Serving your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is all about complementing its flavors and textures. Here are some tasty suggestions to make your meal even more delightful.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a nice crunch and balances the spiciness.

As a Wrap

• Chicken Wrap: Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce and ranch dressing for a quick meal.
• Lettuce Cups: Use large lettuce leaves to create low-carb wraps filled with chicken and veggies.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch pairs well with the crispy chicken.
• Blue Cheese Sauce: For those who love bold flavors, blue cheese adds richness.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty rice enhances the sweet heat of the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad can add texture and flavor.

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How to Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, high-quality chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Dry the Chicken Well: Patting the chicken dry ensures better adhesion of breading.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs work best compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray: A light spray of cooking oil helps achieve that golden crispness on your breading.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic enhance the overall comfort of the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil provide a healthy and colorful addition.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the spicy honey sauce beautifully; grill or boil for convenience.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic side offers a rich, cheesy contrast to your crunchy chicken.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and pairs well with the meal’s flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer sweetness that complements the hot honey sauce nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch for:

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: This can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece of chicken.
• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken dry can result in sogginess. Always dry your chicken with paper towels before coating it.
• Using Regular Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t provide the same crunch as panko. Stick with panko for an extra crispy texture.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature could lead to undercooked or overcooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Forgetting To Spray With Oil: Not spraying the coated chicken with oil may lead to a less crispy coating. A light spray helps achieve that golden-brown finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Frozen leftovers will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that this method may make the coating less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe that might help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to your preference.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

What sides pair well with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe?

This dish goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

The Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it suitable for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spices or adding your favorite garnishes. Give this flavorful dish a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

If you crave a delightful blend of crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This dish combines tender chicken with a crunchy panko coating, all topped off with a homemade hot honey glaze that delivers the perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends, it’s an easy-to-make meal that’s healthier than traditional fried chicken. Serve it alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken dry and set up three shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Bread each chicken piece by coating in flour, dipping in egg, and then rolling in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
6. While baking, prepare the hot honey sauce by combining honey, hot sauce, butter in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth.
7. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the baked chicken before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, consider adding crushed nuts to the panko mixture. You can adjust the heat level of the hot honey sauce by varying the amount of hot sauce used.