Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of crispy chicken and a sweet, spicy glaze to elevate your dinner game. This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of textures and flavors, delivering a satisfying crunch with a sticky-sweet heat that lingers just enough to keep you coming back for more.

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with a lighter take on fried chicken. The baked method, combined with a crunchy coating, turned out to be a game-changer. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for entertaining or indulging in a midweek treat. Let’s dive into what makes this dish irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Prepare to meet your new favorite chicken recipe! This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken offers everything you love about fried chicken with a healthier twist.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple steps and pantry-staple ingredients, this recipe ensures maximum flavor without the hassle of deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat.

Second, the crunchy coating is pure magic. A blend of panko breadcrumbs and a touch of seasoning ensures every bite is crispy, golden, and deeply satisfying.

The star of the show, though, is the hot honey glaze. Sweet with a kick of heat, it’s the perfect complement to the crispy chicken. Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer things milder, you can easily adjust the heat to suit your taste.

Finally, this recipe is baked, not fried, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

Ready to see just how easy this is to whip up? Let’s look at the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element works together to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks: For maximum juiciness, I recommend bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. However, boneless thighs or breasts will work if that’s your preference.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These are the secret to that irresistible crunch. Panko crumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy coating that doesn't feel heavy.
• Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating adhere better. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
• Hot sauce: A splash in the buttermilk adds a layer of flavor to the chicken itself. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
• Hot honey: The star ingredient! Store-bought hot honey works well, or you can easily make your own by combining honey with red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Paprika and garlic powder: These seasonings add depth to the coating, making it flavorful and savory.

You’ll also need a wire rack for baking, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and maintains its crispiness.

How To Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Creating this dish is simpler than you might think, and the results are worth every step. Let’s get started!

1. Prepare the chicken:
Begin by marinating the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

2. Preheat and prep:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top to allow air to circulate around the chicken for even cooking.

3. Coat the chicken:
Set up a breading station with seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then press it firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring every piece is fully coated.

4. Bake to perfection:
Arrange the chicken on the wire rack and spray lightly with cooking oil for an extra-crispy finish. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

5. Glaze with hot honey:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken generously with hot honey. Let it caramelize slightly for a sticky, glossy finish.

Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and crunchy delight hot out of the oven!

Storage Options

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain the crunch.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked, unglazed chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and glazing with fresh hot honey.
• Reheating tip: Avoid microwaving to keep the coating crispy. The oven or air fryer is your best friend here!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce to the buttermilk or glaze. For a milder version, use regular honey with a pinch of paprika instead.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure your hot sauce is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets or thick slices of zucchini. The method remains the same, and the results are equally crispy and delicious.
• Different proteins: Try this recipe with shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a fun twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Experiment with your favorite spices or additions to make this recipe uniquely yours!

With its perfect blend of crunch, heat, and sweetness, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, this recipe has you covered. What’s stopping you from giving it a try?

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