This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a fun twist on your regular chicken dish! It’s crispy on the outside and sweet with a kick, thanks to the hot honey drizzle that makes it oh-so-tasty.
Honestly, who doesn’t love juicy chicken with a crunchy coating? My family goes wild for this! I pair it with some veggies for a full meal, and everyone leaves the table happy—win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work great here. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts are fantastic. Thighs give a bit more flavor and juiciness. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or portobello mushrooms instead!
Buttermilk: This is crucial for making the chicken tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. It works just as well!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add that gorgeous crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but they won’t be quite as crunchy. You can also crush cornflakes for a unique texture!
Honey & Hot Sauce: The combo gives the chicken its sweet and spicy kick. If you prefer less heat, use less hot sauce or try a sweet chili sauce instead. For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar!
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is all about the breading process and baking technique. Here’s a quick guide to help you achieve crispy chicken every time:
- Soak the chicken in buttermilk to tenderize. The longer, the better!
- Coat the chicken in flour first, then dip in egg, and finally cover it with the panko breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly.
- Brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter. This will help it brown nicely in the oven.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Give each piece space to avoid steaming them.
- Flipping halfway through baking helps achieve even crispiness.
These tips will ensure your chicken comes out golden brown and delicious every time!
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating:
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite)
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. You can let the chicken soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or longer, if you have time), so plan accordingly! The total cooking time is around 45 minutes, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Soak the Chicken:
Pour the buttermilk into a bowl. Place the chicken pieces in the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and adds great flavor. For the best results, you can even let them marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight!
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This will give your chicken that tasty crunchy coating!
4. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dip each piece first into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat well, then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken gently to ensure they stick well.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter to help them get extra crispy in the oven.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure both sides become golden and crispy. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Make the Hot Honey Glaze:
While your chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey glaze by mixing the honey and hot sauce in a small bowl. Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to make it as spicy as you like!
9. Drizzle the Glaze:
Once the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the hot honey glaze generously over each piece, allowing it to soak in those delicious flavors.
10. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful balance of crunchy, sweet, and spicy!
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating in buttermilk. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Make This Hot Honey Chicken in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and coat it up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to make the hot honey glaze fresh just before serving to maintain its flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, so you maintain the crispiness. Microwaving might make it a bit soggy, so the oven is preferable!
What Can I Substitute for Hot Sauce?
If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using sweet chili sauce instead of traditional hot sauce. For a smokier flavor, try chipotle sauce or add a dash of smoked paprika to the honey. You can also omit the spice entirely if you prefer the sweetness of just honey!
