Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts 

Savor the irresistible flavors of my Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts. These juicy, tender chicken breasts are perfectly seasoned and glazed with a homemade sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, boasting a delightful garlicky undertone that’s truly mouthwatering. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is gluten-free and can be made ahead. Enjoy flexibility with air-frying options and adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare – With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can quickly whip up this delicious dish.
  • Irresistible Flavor – The combination of sweet honey and spicy heat creates an unforgettable taste experience.
  • Versatile Serving Options – Serve it with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for batch cooking; enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
  • Family-Friendly Dish – Kids and adults alike will love the balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking dish – Ensures even cooking while holding all the flavorful ingredients together.
  • Meat thermometer – Helps you check if your chicken breasts are cooked to perfection at 165°F.
  • Mixing bowl – Provides ample space to combine your hot honey sauce ingredients easily.

Ingredients

For the Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts, you will need:

Chicken Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. organic chicken breasts
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika, optional
  • 1 tsp sea salt

Hot Honey Sauce Ingredients

  • 6 Tbsps unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup organic raw honey
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Pinch of sea salt

How to Make Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

  1. Pat dry the chicken breasts using paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, On Everything blend, smoked paprika (if using), and sea salt.
  3. Rub the mixture all over each chicken breast.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir in honey, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of sea salt.
  4. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

  1. Place seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  2. Pour half of the hot honey sauce over the chicken breasts.
  3. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven and drizzle with remaining hot honey sauce before serving. Enjoy your Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. You can pair them with sides or use them in different styles of meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

  • A crisp garden salad adds freshness and balances the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken.

In a Sandwich

  • Slice the hot honey chicken and place it in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a quick meal.

Topped on Rice Bowls

  • Serve the chicken over steamed rice, drizzling extra hot honey sauce for added flavor. Add vegetables for a complete dish.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

  • Pairing with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots enhances the meal’s nutrition while providing a colorful plate.

As Meal Prep

  • Divide into containers with grains and veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Ideal for busy schedules!

How to Perfect Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

Perfecting your Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts is all about attention to detail. Use these tips to ensure your chicken is always tender and flavorful.

  • Choose quality chicken: Opt for organic chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
  • Marinate beforehand: Allow the chicken to sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes before baking for enhanced taste.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
  • Baste during cooking: Brush on more hot honey sauce halfway through cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Rest before slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

Pairing your Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic add richness that pairs perfectly with the spicy sweetness of the chicken.
  2. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide a fresh crunch and balance out the dish.
  3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes offers great texture alongside the chicken.
  4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn complements the spiciness of the hot honey sauce beautifully.
  5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it an excellent contrast to the baked chicken.
  6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring an extra layer of sweetness that harmonizes well with hot honey flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

  • Using cold chicken: Always start with chicken that is at room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
  • Skipping marination: Don’t skip marinating the chicken in the hot honey sauce. It enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • Overcooking: Monitor cooking time closely to prevent dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  • Not letting it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after baking. This helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
  • Ignoring seasoning balance: Be mindful of seasoning; too much spice can overpower the sweetness. Adjust according to your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

  • Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers.
  • Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes, covered with foil, to retain moisture.
  • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks. Adjust cooking time based on the cut used.

How spicy is the Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts?

The spice level depends on your use of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can always reduce these for a milder dish.

Can I prepare Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor or bake it ahead and reheat as needed.

What should I serve with Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts?

These chicken breasts pair well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adjusting spices or adding different herbs. Enjoy this recipe as an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love!

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Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts 

Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts


  • Author: Cecilia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Savor the delightful combination of sweet and spicy with Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken breasts glazed in a homemade hot honey sauce, infused with garlic and spices for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these chicken breasts are gluten-free and can be customized to suit your preferred spice level. Enjoy them with rice, salads, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs organic chicken breasts
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup organic raw honey
  • 6 Tbsps unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika, optional
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat dry the chicken breasts and rub them with a mixture of olive oil, spices, and sea salt.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in honey and spices; simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish, pour half of the hot honey sauce over it, and bake for 30-35 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  5. Drizzle remaining sauce before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added heat, increase cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Cecilia

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Cecilia