Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Introduction

If you’re a fan of food that hits every note—crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy—this Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is about to be your new obsession. It’s the ultimate combo of oven-baked comfort and fiery flair. The outside is crackly and golden, while the inside stays perfectly tender. Once drizzled with a sticky-sweet hot honey glaze, it’s nothing short of irresistible.

Reasons to Love This Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

This dish is proof that you don’t need a fryer to get ultra-crispy chicken. The magic happens in the oven with the help of panko breadcrumbs and a light oil spray. It’s quick enough for a busy night but impressive enough for guests. The sweet heat of the honey glaze takes it over the top, making every bite bold and unforgettable.

What’s even better? It uses pantry staples, is easy to make ahead, and is highly customizable to your spice tolerance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1½ lbs)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½(adjust to your spice level)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar (for balance)

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment based on what’s in your pantry. You can swap chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier result. Gluten-free panko works just as well for a celiac-friendly option. Want more heat? Toss in some cayenne pepper. If you prefer maple syrup over honey, it can easily take its place while keeping that sticky sweetness.

Vegetarian? Try this coating and glaze combo on baked cauliflower or tofu.

Tools You’ll Need in this crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

• Oven and baking tray

• Parchment paper or nonstick silicone mat

• Three shallow bowls

• Small saucepan

• Basting brush or spoon for glazing

• Tongs or fork

• Meat thermometer (highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper for crisp edges and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station

In three separate bowls, prep your dredging station:

• Bowl 1: Combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.

• Bowl 3: Pour in the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry. Dip each piece in the seasoned flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally press into the panko until fully coated. Arrange the pieces on the lined tray, leaving space between each one.

Spray lightly with olive oil or cooking spray to help the crust crisp up.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. You’ll know it’s done when the coating is golden and internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken bakes, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.Then, Let it simmer gently until everything melds together—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with a Glossy Glaze

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle or brush the hot honey glaze over the top. Let it soak in for a minute or two before serving so the flavors really stick.

What to Serve with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Pair your spicy-sweet chicken with cool or creamy sides to balance the flavor.

• Classic mac and cheese

• Roasted sweet potatoes

• Pickled cucumbers

• Creamy coleslaw

• Fresh corn salad

This dish also works great in a sandwich with slaw or over waffles for a sweet-and-savory twist.

How to Store Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

After it cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness.

Avoid microwaving if possible—it tends to soften that crunchy exterior.

Can I Freeze Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

Yes! Freeze the unglazed, baked chicken on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F until hot and crispy, then glaze with freshly made hot honey.

Two Resources

• The Ultimate Guide to Baking Crispy Chicken

• How to Make Hot Honey at Home

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this chicken less spicy?
Definitely. Reduce or skip the hot sauce and chili flakes in the glaze.

2. What’s the best way to get the crispiest coating?
Using panko breadcrumbs and giving the chicken a light spray of oil before baking makes all the difference.

3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes—bread it and refrigerate up to 6 hours in advance. Bake when ready.

4. Can I use an air fryer instead?
Absolutely. Cook at 380°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. What’s a good dipping sauce for this?
Ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot honey on the side are all winners.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Total Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 13g

• Sodium: 790mg

Values are approximate and will vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands.

Conclusion

This Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is everything you want in a meal—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with that fiery-sweet kick. It’s comforting, quick, and endlessly crave-worthy. Whether you’re making it for your family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to become a staple.

Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

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• Author: sellie
• Total Time: 50min
• Yield: 4servings 1x

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Description

If you’re a fan of food that hits every note—crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy—this Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is about to be your new obsession. It’s the ultimate combo of oven-baked comfort and fiery flair. The outside is crackly and golden, while the inside stays perfectly tender. Once drizzled with a sticky-sweet hot honey glaze, it’s nothing short of irresistible.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (roughly 1.5 lbs)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but tasty)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for that unbeatable crunch)

Hot Honey Sauce Components

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Frank’s or your favorite brand)

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added fire)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for tang)

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley

• Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for texture

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

and in a second bowl, beat your eggs.

In the third bowl, pour in your panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Pat each chicken piece dry with paper towels. Dip one at a time into the seasoned flour, then into the eggs, and finally coat it well in panko. Press lightly to help the breadcrumbs adhere nicely.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Place the breaded chicken on your prepared baking sheet. Give each piece a light spray of cooking oil or a drizzle of olive oil to boost crispiness. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The chicken is done when it’s golden and reads 165°F (74°C) inside.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken’s in the oven, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice or vinegar. Warm everything together until it’s smooth and steamy—not boiling.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

Take the chicken out and spoon or brush the hot honey sauce generously over each piece. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for added texture and flair.

Notes

• Add Sweetness Variations: Try hot maple syrup instead of honey for a warm, smoky-sweet twist, especially during colder months.

• Sauce Consistency Matters: Simmer the hot honey sauce just enough to thicken slightly – you want it to coat, not run off the chicken.

• Prep Time: 20min
• Cook Time: 30min
• Category: Dinner , main course
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken piece
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg