Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken: The Perfect Sweet

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Craving crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy twist? This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a game-changer! The chicken is coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, baked until golden and crisp, then drizzled with sticky hot honey. It’s the ultimate balance of flavors — bold, savory, and just the right amount of heat. Plus, it’s baked, not fried, so you get all the crunch without the extra oil. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  1. Incredible Flavor: Sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bite.
  2. Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, but just as crispy.
  3. Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably in your pantry.
  4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully for leftovers.
  5. Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the crunchy texture and honey glaze.

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Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp butter (melted)

Equipment Used

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (for extra crispiness)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Pastry brush

Directions & Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Prepare the Breading: In one bowl, combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place flour in another bowl and beaten eggs in a third.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the seasoned panko mixture.
  4. Bake: Arrange chicken on the wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
  5. Make the Hot Honey: While the chicken bakes, mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a small bowl.
  6. Glaze and Serve: Brush the hot honey over the crispy chicken right after baking. Serve immediately!

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Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 chicken piece):

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Sugar: 20g

Nutrition is an estimate and may vary.

Prep Time and Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Extra Spicy: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the panko mix.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken tenders? Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time to 15-20 minutes.
  2. What if I don’t have hot sauce? Substitute with sriracha or chili paste.
  3. Can I make the hot honey ahead of time? Yes, store it in a jar at room temp for up to 1 week.

Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
  • Don’t Skip the Rack: It helps air circulate for even crispiness.
  • Taste the Honey First: Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken with:

  • Roasted Veggies: For a balanced meal.
  • Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the extra glaze.
  • Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side.

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Elisa
This baked crunchy hot honey chicken recipe is crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (for extra crispiness)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter (melted

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
  • Prepare the Breading: In one bowl, combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place flour in another bowl and beaten eggs in a third.
  • Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the seasoned panko mixture.
  • Bake: Arrange chicken on the wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
  • Make the Hot Honey: While the chicken bakes, mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a small bowl.
  • Glaze and Serve: Brush the hot honey over the crispy chicken right after baking. Serve immediately!

Notes

Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
Don’t Skip the Rack: It helps air circulate for even crispiness.
Taste the Honey First: Adjust the spice level to your preference.