baked crunchy hot honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken delivers bold flavor and irresistible texture in every bite. With a perfectly crisp, oven-baked coating and a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey, this dish offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness—all without deep frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Without Frying: Oven-baked for a crunchy texture with less oil.
• Sweet & Spicy Flavor: The hot honey glaze brings just the right kick of heat and sweetness.
• Family Favorite: A fun twist on classic baked chicken that’s sure to be a hit.
• Versatile: Great on its own or served in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and no special equipment required.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into strips or pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup crushed cornflakes
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or oil, for coating

For the Hot Honey

• ½ cup honey
• 1–2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a richer glaze)

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

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the Coating
   In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken
   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
   Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to ensure a thick, even coating. Place on the baking sheet and lightly spray with oil.

4. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Make the Hot Honey
   While the chicken bakes, combine honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and warm. Remove from heat.

6. Serve
   Drizzle the hot honey over the baked chicken right before serving, or serve it on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus optional marinating time)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Extra Crispy: Use only cornflakes for a crunchier texture.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornflakes.
• Use Chicken Wings or Drumsticks: Adjust baking time based on thickness.
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.
• Add a Kick: Mix cayenne pepper into the coating or add more hot sauce to the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze after baking (before adding honey) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes until hot and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well. Just slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

What type of hot sauce is best?

Use your favorite—Frank’s, Cholula, or even sriracha all work well.

Can I skip the marinating?

Yes, but marinating adds tenderness and flavor. Even 30 minutes makes a difference.

Can I make it less spicy?

Use less hot sauce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Can I fry this instead of baking?

Yes, shallow-fry in oil at 350°F until golden and cooked through.

How do I keep it crispy?

Serve immediately after baking and drizzle the honey just before serving.

Is this good for sandwiches?

Absolutely! Add to a bun with pickles and slaw for a delicious hot honey chicken sandwich.

Can I make the hot honey ahead?

Yes, store it in a jar at room temperature for up to a week.

Is it kid-friendly?

Adjust the heat level of the honey and it can easily be made mild enough for kids.

What sides go well with it?

Coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese are great pairings.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy—all made without frying. Whether served on its own or in a sandwich, it’s a mouthwatering main that’s as simple to prepare as it is fun to eat. A must-try for any comfort food lover.