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.
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
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.
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.
Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/baked-crunchy-hot-honey-chicken/