Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and spicy, and that’s exactly what this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken delivers. Tender chicken coated in a golden, crunchy crust is topped with a sticky, spicy hot honey glaze, making every bite a flavor explosion.

This recipe became a favorite in my house after I first tried to replicate a dish we had at a trendy restaurant downtown. The best part? It's baked, not fried, so you can enjoy that satisfying crunch guilt-free. Let’s dive in and make this crowd-pleaser your new go-to dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Get ready to make your taste buds dance. This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a must-try for so many reasons.

First, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The chicken’s crispy coating contrasts beautifully with the sticky, sweet heat of the hot honey glaze. It’s indulgent, yet so satisfying.

This recipe is also a healthier take on fried chicken. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you cut down on unnecessary oil without sacrificing that crave-worthy crunch.

What’s more, it’s easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have dinner ready in under an hour. No deep fryer, no mess.

Finally, it’s endlessly versatile. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies, over a bed of rice, or even in a sandwich for a delicious twist. The options are endless!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a big punch. Here's what you’ll need.

Chicken thighs or breasts are the stars of this dish. Thighs are naturally juicier and more forgiving in the oven, but chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner cut.

The coating mixture combines panko breadcrumbs and a bit of flour for that ultimate crunch. Panko is key here—its airy texture ensures the chicken bakes up golden and crispy.

Eggs act as the binder, helping the coating stick to the chicken pieces. You can add a dash of hot sauce to the eggs for an extra kick.

The star of the show is the hot honey glaze. A mix of honey, melted butter, and your favorite hot sauce, it’s both sweet and fiery. Adjust the hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

If you want to take things up a notch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on the glaze adds extra heat and visual appeal.

Lastly, make sure to have a wire rack for baking. Elevating the chicken helps air circulate, ensuring that all sides get crispy.

How To Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Making this dish is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a foolproof crispy and flavorful result.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top to keep the chicken elevated while it bakes. This helps achieve that perfect crunch.

Prepare your coating stations. In one shallow dish, whisk together the eggs (and hot sauce if using). In another dish, mix panko, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is your breading assembly line.

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it's fully coated, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken onto the prepared rack.

Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know it’s ready when the coating is golden brown, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

While the chicken is baking, make the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey and hot sauce until combined and heated through. Set it aside.

Once the chicken is done, brush each piece generously with the hot honey glaze. For extra crunch, pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after glazing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This chicken stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, avoid covering it with plastic wrap directly.

To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack and warm it in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. This method ensures the crust stays crunchy, and the chicken stays juicy.

The hot honey glaze can also be stored separately in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a day or in the fridge for up to a week.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own.

For a gluten-free version, swap out the panko and flour for gluten-free alternatives. You’ll still get that same amazing crunch.

Looking for an extra spicy kick? Use a hotter hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

If you’re short on honey, maple syrup can be a delicious alternative. It adds a slightly different sweetness that pairs beautifully with the heat.

Want to make it dairy-free? Skip the butter in the glaze and use a plant-based alternative. The flavor remains fantastic.

Finally, consider trying this method with other proteins. Shrimp or tofu would work wonderfully with the hot honey glaze and crispy coating.

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or a fun dinner party, it’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular on your menu!

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