Are you ready for a taste sensation that hits all the right notes? Our Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is here to deliver! This recipe takes simple chicken and transforms it into an extraordinary dish with a golden, crispy coating and a delectable sweet-and-spicy glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect blend of satisfying crunch, tender chicken, and a flavor profile that dances on your tongue.

Forget greasy fried chicken! This baked version offers all the delicious crispiness without the deep-frying fuss, making it a healthier and easier weeknight dinner solution. The secret lies in the Panko breadcrumbs and a perfectly balanced hot honey sauce that coats every bite with irresistible flavor.

Why This Hot Honey Chicken Will Be Your New Obsession

• Irresistibly Crunchy: Thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, each piece of chicken boasts an incredible crunch that's simply addictive.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The hot honey sauce provides a harmonious blend of sweetness from honey and a kick from your favorite hot sauce.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a hit with families and guests alike, making it ideal for both casual dinners and entertaining.

Gather Your Ingredients for a Flavorful Feast

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

For the Signature Hot Honey Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your preferred heat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

You'll find detailed measurements and additional cooking tips in the recipe card below.

Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is crucial for easy cleanup and preventing sticking!

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare three separate bowls. In the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with a generous pinch of salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. In the second bowl, whisk the two large eggs until well beaten. In the third bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread Each Piece of Chicken

Working one piece at a time, dip the chicken into the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure every surface is covered. Place the breaded chicken pieces onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren't touching to promote crispiness.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This is key for achieving that beautiful golden-brown, crunchy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is crispy and golden.

Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

While your chicken is baking, get started on the star of the show – the hot honey sauce! In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce (start with 1 tablespoon and add more later if you dare!), apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a small pinch of salt. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is warmed through and well combined. Taste and adjust the hot sauce to your desired level of spice. If you love flavorful chicken dishes, you might also enjoy our Easy Pan-Fried Chicken Breasts for another weeknight winner!

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Once the chicken is baked and perfectly crispy, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the warm hot honey sauce generously over the chicken. You can gently toss the chicken in a large bowl to ensure an even coating, or simply serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Don't Skimp on the Panko: Regular breadcrumbs won't give you the same level of crunch. Panko is essential here!
• Even Coating: Take your time to ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in each step of the breading process for maximum crispiness.
• Space Them Out: Give your chicken pieces room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping. Use two sheets if necessary.
• Internal Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety.
• Customize the Heat: The beauty of hot honey is its versatility. Adjust the amount and type of hot sauce to perfectly match your family’s preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Mashed potatoes or a creamy pasta side.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of this delicious chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that desirable crunch!

Conclusion

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is a true game-changer, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will quickly become a beloved staple in your home. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed!

We hope you love this recipe as much as we do. Don't forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any creative twists you added! For more delicious inspiration, make sure to explore our other recipes at Clara's Recipes.

FAQs

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