Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. This recipe combines the best of all worlds: juicy baked chicken with a crunchy exterior, paired with the irresistible flavor of hot honey glaze. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The best part? It’s baked, not fried, making it a healthier option without sacrificing that crunch factor.

In this 3,000-word recipe, we’ll guide you through every step to create the ultimate Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, including tips on how to achieve that perfect crispy coating, crafting the ideal hot honey sauce, and even ideas for customizing the dish to suit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender throughout.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, crack the two eggs and beat them lightly with a fork or whisk. This will help the coating adhere to the chicken.
3. Prepare the Crunchy Coating: In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes. Panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a light, airy crunch, while the cornflakes add an extra crispy texture.

Step 3: Breading the Chicken

1. Coat in Flour: Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring that both sides are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully submerged. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next step.
3. Coat in Crunchy Mixture: Finally, press the chicken into the panko-cornflake mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks. Make sure both sides are evenly coated. Place the coated chicken breasts on a plate and repeat the process with the remaining chicken pieces.

Step 4: Baking the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A high temperature ensures that the chicken bakes quickly and the coating gets nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken as it bakes, ensuring it stays crispy on all sides.
3. Bake the Chicken: Lightly spray the coated chicken breasts with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps the breading get golden and crispy. Arrange the chicken breasts on the wire rack, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. You may want to flip the chicken halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.

Step 5: Making the Hot Honey Sauce

1. Heat the Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter (if using), apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and the butter is fully melted.
2. Adjust Spice Level: Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or red pepper flakes, depending on your preference.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Once done, remove from heat and set aside. The sauce will thicken a bit more as it cools.

Step 6: Assembling the Dish

1. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven. While the chicken is still hot, drizzle or brush the hot honey sauce over the crispy chicken breasts. Make sure to coat them generously for maximum flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can toss the chicken in the sauce instead.
   2. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, sesame seeds, and sliced green onions over the chicken for a burst of color and flavor.

   Step 7: Serving Suggestions

   1. Pairing Ideas: Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
      • Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the hot honey sauce.
      • Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
      • Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the chicken.
      • Potatoes: Mashed potatoes or a baked potato can also be a great accompaniment.
   2. Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

   Tips for Success

   1. Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe, as they cook evenly and stay juicy. However, you can use thighs if you prefer dark meat; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
   2. Achieving the Perfect Crunch: To ensure maximum crispiness, be generous with the cooking spray before baking. If you have an air fryer, you can also use it for an even crispier texture.
   3. Hot Honey Variations: Feel free to experiment with the hot honey sauce! Try adding garlic powder, ginger, or even a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
   4. Make it a Meal Prep: This chicken is great for meal prep. Cook a batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out with your favorite sides for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
   5. Spice Level Adjustments: Adjust the heat level according to your preferences. You can use a milder hot sauce for a gentler heat or a hotter variety for those who crave spice.
   6. Storage Tips: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great drizzled over grilled meats or roasted vegetables!

   Nutritional Information

   This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only delicious but can also fit into a balanced diet. Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings, excluding sides):

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   • Calories: 400
   • Protein: 34g
   • Fat: 12g
   • Carbohydrates: 45g
   • Fiber: 2g
   • Sugar: 10g

   Health Benefits

   1. Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
   2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Using olive oil or butter in moderation can provide healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
   3. Whole Ingredients: By making the sauce and chicken from scratch, you avoid preservatives and excess sodium found in many store-bought options.

   Conclusion

   Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delectable dish that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with the rich, sweet heat of hot honey sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at your next gathering. With its simple preparation and robust flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

   Feel free to experiment with different side dishes, sauces, and toppings to make it your own. Enjoy this crispy delight as part of a balanced meal, and watch as it becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!

   Yield: 4

   Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

   

   Print

   Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. This recipe combines the best of all worlds: juicy baked chicken with a crunchy exterior, paired with the irresistible flavor of hot honey glaze. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The best part? It’s baked, not fried, making it a healthier option without sacrificing that crunch factor.

   Prep Time 15 minutes

   Cook Time 30 minutes

   Ingredients

   • For the Chicken:
   • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
   • 1 cup buttermilk
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1 teaspoon onion powder
   • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
   • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
   • Salt and pepper, to taste
   • For the Breading:
   • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
   • ½ cup all-purpose flour
   • 1 teaspoon paprika
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
   • ½ teaspoon onion powder
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
   • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
   • For the Hot Honey Sauce:
   • ½ cup honey
   • 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust for spice preference)
   • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
   • Pinch of salt

   Instructions

   1. Preheat Oven:
      Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
      
   2. Marinate the Chicken:
      In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
      Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).
      
   3. Prepare the Breading:
      In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
      
   4. Coat the Chicken:
      Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
      Dredge each piece of chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a good coating. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
      
   5. Bake the Chicken:
      Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
      
   6. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
      While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until heated through and well combined, then remove from heat.
      
   7. Drizzle and Serve:
      Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle the hot honey sauce over the crispy chicken before serving. For an extra kick, serve additional hot sauce on the side.
      Enjoy your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad!

   Notes

   • Chicken Options: Chicken thighs will yield juicier results, but breasts can also work well for this recipe.
   • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crunchiness.
   • Make it Spicier: Increase the amount of hot sauce in the honey sauce for an extra spicy kick.