Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory. The baked chicken provides a crispy, satisfying crunch without the mess or extra calories of frying. The hot honey sauce gives a sweet kick, making each bite addictive and full of flavor. It’s a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken but with all the flavor you crave. Plus, it’s easy to make, and cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs. In a third bowl, place the flour.

4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip it into the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure it sticks.

5. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken for extra crispiness.

6. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

7. While the chicken is baking, heat the hot honey in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.

8. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the warm hot honey over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25-30 minutes

• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

• Vegan Version: Use tofu or cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a plant-based option. Ensure you use a vegan egg replacement for the coating.

• Extra Heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to increase the heat level.

• Different Sweeteners: If you prefer a milder sweetness, you can use regular honey or maple syrup instead of hot honey.

• Cheese: Add a bit of mozzarella or cheddar to the breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For extra crispiness, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can fry the chicken for a more traditional approach. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

2. What if I don’t have hot honey?

You can make your own hot honey by combining regular honey with a few drops of hot sauce or chili flakes. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.

3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they will need to be fully thawed before breading and baking. Ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. How do I make the coating more crispy?

For extra crispiness, you can use Panko breadcrumbs or add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture. This will help the coating become crunchier.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also make the hot honey sauce ahead and store it in the fridge.

6. Can I bake the chicken at a different temperature?

You can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C), but it may need a few extra minutes to reach the desired crispiness.

7. Can I use a different sauce?

Certainly! You can swap out the hot honey for buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more hot sauce or chili flakes to the hot honey or mix in cayenne pepper or sriracha to the breadcrumb coating.

9. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind that it will take longer to bake. You may need to adjust the cooking time to 40-45 minutes.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as a substitute for the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful fusion of crispy, crunchy texture and the bold flavors of spicy honey. It’s easy to make, versatile, and sure to please anyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a healthier twist on fried chicken or a new favorite weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Enjoy the crispy goodness with the perfect balance of sweet and heat!