Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe combines a crispy coating with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, delivering a delightful meal perfect for dinner or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
For the Hot Honey Sauce
- 0.25 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce adjust to your preferred heat level
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice optional, for tang
For Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley optional
- Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Making the Hot Honey Sauce
- While the chicken is baking, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- If desired, add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce and stir to combine.
Final Steps
- When baking is complete, remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle with hot honey sauce or toss for more coverage.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired.
- Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before breading for a better coating. For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken. Adjust hot sauce to taste. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.