Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Craving a dish that’s a perfect harmony of sweet and spicy? Look no further than this delectable recipe for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. It’s the ultimate solution for those fried chicken cravings without the guilt or the mess. Picture this – juicy chicken with an extra crunchy coating, all baked to perfection in the oven, and then generously drizzled with a sticky hot honey sauce that packs just the right amount of heat.

Gather your loved ones around the table because this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The first time I made this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, my family couldn’t resist sneaking extra pieces right off the pan before dinner even started. The magic lies in the hot honey sauce – a delightful combination of sweetness followed by a gradual build-up of heat. Kids love to have extra sauce on the side, and it’s so versatile you might find yourself dipping veggies or even drizzling it on pizza.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a winner. With a few easy swaps and serving suggestions, you can make this dish your own and create unforgettable culinary moments. So, roll up your sleeves, get ready to bake up a storm, and savor the irresistible flavors of this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken – a delightful blend of classic comfort food and modern culinary trends.

Quick Benefits

• Creates a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken
• Offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors in every bite
• Easy to customize with different protein options like chicken thighs or tofu
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated without losing the crispy texture

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Heat: The hot honey sauce in this recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, making every bite a flavor explosion.
• Crispy and Crunchy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and baking method creates a crispy coating that rivals traditional fried chicken, without the mess.
• Family Favorite: This dish is a crowd-pleaser! It brings everyone together around the table, and the irresistible taste will have your family sneaking extra pieces off the pan.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe based on your dietary needs. From gluten-free options to vegetarian variations using tofu, there’s something for everyone.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly: The recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make the sauce in advance, store leftovers, and even freeze the chicken for future quick and delicious meals.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the trendy hot honey flavor without leaving your home. The modern twist on a classic southern dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
• Pairs Well with Various Sides: Whether you prefer a crisp coleslaw, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad, this dish complements a variety of sides for a balanced meal.

Ingredients for Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Chicken Preparation

• 125 grams all-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (approximately 680 grams)
• 90 grams panko breadcrumbs

Hot Honey Sauce

• 60 millilitres honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 14 grams unsalted butter

Garnish (optional)

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts

Pro Tips for Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

For an extra crispy coating, make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading it. This will help the flour and egg mixture adhere better, resulting in a crunchier texture.

To intensify the flavor of the hot honey sauce, consider adding a touch of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This will bring a tangy contrast to the sweetness and spice, elevating the overall taste of the dish.

If you prefer a milder heat level, start with a smaller amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the sauce mixture. You can always adjust the spiciness to your liking by gradually adding more until you reach your desired heat level.

How to Make Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 200°C and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Assemble Breading Stations

In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Place beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dry chicken pieces with paper towels. Coat in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and press into panko breadcrumbs to adhere.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken on the baking sheet. Lightly coat with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes at 74°C internal temperature until crispy.

Step 5: Prepare Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is baking, mix honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until butter melts and sauce is smooth. Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if preferred.

Step 6: Glaze Chicken

Take the chicken out of the oven and either drizzle the hot honey sauce over each piece or toss the chicken in the sauce for even coating.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. Serve promptly with desired accompaniments.

Storage Tips

After enjoying the delicious Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, it’s important to store any leftovers properly. Store the cooked chicken in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s recommended to use an oven or air fryer to help revive the crispiness of the coating. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soft. If you plan to freeze the chicken, do so before adding the sauce, and wrap each piece in parchment paper to prevent sticking. The chicken can be frozen for up to two months. Freezing with the sauce is not recommended as the honey may crystalize.

For those who don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs can be used by toasting them first for extra crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using rice flour and gluten-free panko. Additionally, the recipe can be adjusted to use boneless thighs or tofu for a vegetarian version. Substitutes like pure maple syrup for honey and sriracha for hot sauce can be used if necessary. The leftovers are versatile and can be enjoyed over a rice bowl, as a sandwich filling, or as finger food at a party with the hot honey sauce for dipping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, consider using rice flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs as a substitute for the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. Toasting the breadcrumbs before using them will enhance the crunchiness.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with tofu. Tofu can absorb flavors well, making it a great alternative for this dish. Marinate the tofu in the hot honey sauce for extra flavor.

If you’re looking to switch up the sauce, you can use pure maple syrup instead of honey. Sriracha is a good alternative to hot sauce if you run out. Adjust the amount to control the heat level to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving idea, try turning this baked crunchy hot honey chicken into a DIY slider bar for a fun and interactive meal. Slice the chicken into smaller pieces or strips and set out a variety of slider buns, coleslaw, pickles, and additional hot honey sauce for everyone to build their own sliders. It’s a great way to enjoy this dish in a new format and perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Another creative suggestion is to use the leftover hot honey chicken to make a flavorful and satisfying rice bowl. Simply chop up the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place it on a bed of cooked rice. Add some steamed or roasted vegetables, a drizzle of the hot honey sauce, and top it off with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra crunch. This dish is a delicious way to repurpose leftovers and create a new meal with bold flavors.

FAQs for Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They tend to stay extra juicy and flavorful when baked in the oven.

How can I ensure my chicken coating is extra crispy?

Using panko breadcrumbs will help create a crispy crust. Lightly spraying the coated chicken with oil before baking can also add extra crunch to the coating.

Is it possible to adjust the spiciness of the hot honey sauce?

Absolutely! You can control the heat level of the sauce by adjusting the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes used. Feel free to customize it to suit your spice preference.

Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hot honey sauce in advance. Gently reheat it before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors that will surely become a family favorite. The crispy coating, juicy chicken, and sticky hot honey sauce come together to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the goodness of homemade crunchy hot honey chicken. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. Let the enticing aroma fill your home as you bake up a batch of this delicious chicken. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite of this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken masterpiece.