Introduction to Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Being a mother with a very hectic schedule I know, that it is hard to make something fast and yummy. So here it goes, my very special Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe! The perfect combination of crispy and spicy-sweet. Your family or guests will rave over dinner that didn’t take hours out of your busy schedule. Trust me, this beautiful golden chicken takes 45 minutes from start to finish but packs so much flavor. You will want to make this your new go-to meal!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. It comes out of the oven crispy and golden, making it feel like a special treat. The tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle. Plus, since it’s baked instead of fried, you get all that crunch with a little less guilt. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this mouthwatering Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star of the dish. Choose your favorite cut for juicy results.
- All-purpose flour: This will help create a nice coating on the chicken. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish. It’s worth using kosher for the texture and taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper: A simple way to add a little kick. Use freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Garlic powder: It’s a must for that savory depth. If you prefer fresh garlic, that works too! Just mince a few cloves.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness. It’s great for those who might be sensitive to raw onions.
- Smoked paprika: This gives its signature flavor and color. Opt for sweet or hot depending on your preference.
- Eggs: These will help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken, making it extra crispy.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch! They’re lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Honey: The star of the hot honey sauce! You want a good quality honey for a rich flavor.
- Hot sauce: It brings the heat! Adjust the amount to your taste — you can use your favorite variety.
- Unsalted butter: This will enrich the hot honey sauce. Use unsalted to control the saltiness.
- Red pepper flakes: These will give an extra kick to the sauce. Feel free to omit if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: A splash of acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Fresh chopped parsley: This not only garnishes the dish but adds a fresh, bright flavor.
- Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts: For extra crunch and flavor. They make the dish visually appealing too!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version of this recipe. Now that you have everything lined up, we’re ready to dive into making this delicious meal!
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part: making that Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken! Follow these straightforward steps to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and delicious.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This is vital for achieving that crispy texture we all crave. While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This keeps the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps the coating stick better and keeps it crispy.
Next, in one shallow dish, mix together the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. In a second dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
Now, let’s get organized! You’ll work with three dishes: one for the flour mix, one for the eggs, and the last for the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken
Now comes the fun part: breading! Take each piece of chicken and first dredge it in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it into the beaten eggs. This step helps the breadcrumbs stick.
Finally, coat the chicken with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure they adhere well. The key to that irresistible crunch is making sure those breadcrumbs stick!
Bake Until Golden
Arrange your beautifully breaded chicken pieces on the baking sheet. For an extra crispy finish, lightly spray or drizzle them with olive oil.
Bake everything in your preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Look for that beautiful golden color as well!
Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While the chicken bakes, let’s whip up that zesty hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the butter melts and everything is smooth.
For a nice touch, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice to balance the sweet heat. This sauce is where the magic happens!
Drizzle and Garnish
Once your chicken is out of the oven, it’s showtime! Drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the chicken. For a bolder flavor, toss the pieces in the sauce to coat them completely.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top. Not only does this add flavor, but it also makes the dish look stunning!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry; it helps the coating stick.
- After breading, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before baking for a crunchier texture.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time.
- Don’t rush the sauce; letting it simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the level of heat in the sauce to suit your family’s taste.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard sheet works, but a wire rack allows for better air circulation.
- Three shallow dishes: These can be pie plates or any wide, shallow bowl for easy dredging.
- Parchment paper: Silicone mats are also great for a non-stick surface.
- Meat thermometer: Essential for checking chicken doneness; if you don’t have one, cut into the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through.
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Variation: Add minced garlic to the hot honey sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
- Herbs and Citrus: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb coating for added aroma. A splash of lemon zest enhances brightness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a safe, yet crispy dish.
- Honey Chipotle Sauce: Replace hot sauce with chipotle sauce for a smoky and spicy twist.
- Vegetable Version: Use cauliflower or eggplant slices in place of chicken for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Side Salad: Fresh mixed greens with a light vinaigrette bring a refreshing balance to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add color and flavor to your plate.
- Crispy Potatoes: Serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty addition.
- Drink Pairings: Ice-cold iced tea or a light lager complements the spicy sweetness.
- Presentation: Serve on a colorful platter to elevate the meal’s visual appeal.
FAQs about Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Can I make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. This saves time on those busy weeknights!
What can I serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?
You have a world of options! This crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, roasted veggies, or even a hearty grain like quinoa. Just think about balance!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep that crunch alive!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it completely before breading. Otherwise, it might not cook evenly, and we want that juicy perfection!
Can I adjust the heat level in the hot honey sauce?
For sure! Feel free to reduce the amount of hot sauce or leave out the red pepper flakes if you’re looking for a milder flavor. Customize it to your family’s taste!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken has been a delightful experience for me, and I hope it becomes a joy in your kitchen too! The crispy texture combined with the sweet, spicy sauce is a taste sensation that brightens up any meal. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or satisfy your family on a busy weeknight, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can enjoy the cooking process rather than stress over it. So why not dive in and make this your new favorite? Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and crispy baked chicken recipe drizzled with a spicy hot honey sauce, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (approximately 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Set oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In one shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Beat eggs in a second shallow dish. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure crumb adhesion.
- Arrange breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for even crisping. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and exterior is golden brown.
- Combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until butter is melted and sauce is smooth. Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy finish, if desired.
- Remove chicken from oven and immediately drizzle with hot honey sauce. For more intense flavor, toss pieces in the sauce to coat completely.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. Serve hot with side dishes of choice.
Notes
- For extra crunch, ensure the breadcrumbs are pressed firmly onto the chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the level of heat by changing the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
