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Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

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This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is a crispy, oven-baked delight with sweet and spicy flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it’s a healthier twist on classic fried chicken using panko breadcrumbs and drizzled with irresistible homemade hot honey sauce.

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 the Hot Honey Sauce:

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh chopped parsley

Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

  • Prep chicken: Pat dry. Dredge in flour-spice mix, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko.

  • Bake: Place coated chicken on the sheet, spray lightly with oil. Bake 25–30 mins until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

  • Make sauce: Simmer honey, hot sauce, butter, and optional red pepper flakes/vinegar in a saucepan until smooth.

  • Glaze chicken: Drizzle hot honey over baked chicken or toss to coat.

  • Garnish & serve: Add parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts. Serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For less spice, reduce hot sauce and skip red pepper flakes.

  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a GF version.

  • Swap chicken for cauliflower or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

  • Sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 1 week.