Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe gives you all the satisfaction of fried chicken with a healthier twist, thanks to baking instead of deep frying. The hot honey drizzle adds a bold, flavorful kick that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The crunchy coating provides a satisfying bite, while the tender chicken inside remains moist and flavorful. Baking instead of frying means fewer calories without sacrificing taste or crunch. Plus, the hot honey glaze offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice that elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness. Whether you are preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is both easy and rewarding to make.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
• Buttermilk
• All-purpose flour
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Honey
• Hot sauce
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible, to tenderize and flavor the meat.
3. In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat thoroughly.
5. Then dip the floured chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even, generous coating.
6. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the honey and hot sauce together over low heat until warm and combined.
9. Once the chicken is baked, drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the top.
10. Serve immediately, optionally sprinkling with red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, marination time is 30 minutes (or overnight for best results), and cooking time is about 25 minutes. Total time varies between 1 hour and overnight, depending on marination preference.

Variations

• Spicy level adjustment: Increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
• Alternative coatings: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier texture.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Different proteins: Try this method with boneless pork chops or tofu for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy coating. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the breading to become soggy.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, offering a good balance between juiciness and ease of eating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and coat it just before baking to maintain maximum crunchiness.

How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The heat level is moderate, but you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?

Yes, but you will need to increase the baking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes are good alternatives.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is well-coated and lightly pressed into the breading, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of baking?

Yes, you can air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make the hot honey sauce milder?

Reduce the amount of hot sauce and omit red pepper flakes for a sweeter, less spicy glaze.

Can I freeze the baked chicken?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze baked chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together the best of crispy coatings and sweet, spicy glazes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive offering at a casual gathering, this healthier take on fried chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a bite full of crispy, juicy, and sticky goodness!

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