Description
Looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken? Try this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and drizzled with a hot honey sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make and perfect for dinner or meal prep, offering the satisfying crunch and flavor of fried chicken without the extra oil.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your preferred heat level)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for tang)
For Garnish (optional):
Fresh chopped parsley
Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for added crunch)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken: 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 make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help the coating crisp up. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Make the Hot Honey Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like a little tang, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce and stir to combine.
Glaze the Chicken: When the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. If you like extra sauce, you can toss the chicken in the sauce for more coverage.
Garnish and Serve: 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
For extra crunch, you can bake the chicken on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet.
Adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
For a tangier flavor, consider adding lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
You can use chicken thighs for a juicier result if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
