Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Oh, let me tell you, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe has become an absolute staple in our household. From the moment the aroma of honey and spices starts wafting from the oven, everyone knows they’re in for a treat. We’ve tried countless chicken recipes over the years, but this one? This one is different. It’s the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy. Even my picky eaters, who usually shy away from anything with a hint of heat, are completely hooked. The crunchy coating is unbelievably satisfying, and the hot honey glaze is just… chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes, leaving you with happy faces and requests for seconds (and thirds!). If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for weekend company, look no further. This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is about to become your new go-to.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor explosion. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; most are pantry staples, and the magic lies in how they come together.

• Chicken pieces: About 2 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix). Bone-in, skin-on chicken is key for juicy and flavorful baked chicken. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly and be mindful they may dry out faster.
• All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups. The base of our crispy breading, providing structure and helping everything stick. You can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch: ½ cup. This secret ingredient is what truly elevates the crunch factor. Cornstarch creates an extra crispy coating that stays crisp even after being glazed.
• Spices: 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked or sweet), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference), 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper. This blend of spices adds depth of flavor and warmth to the chicken, complementing the sweet and spicy glaze. Feel free to experiment with other spices like chili powder or cumin for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Eggs: 2 large. Eggs act as a binder, helping the breading adhere to the chicken and adding richness to the coating.
• Milk: ¼ cup. Milk thins the egg wash slightly and adds moisture to the breading process. Buttermilk can be used for extra tenderness and tang.
• Hot sauce: ¼ cup (such as Frank’s RedHot, or your favorite brand). The heat component! Choose your favorite hot sauce, considering its heat level and flavor. Adjust the amount to your spice tolerance. For a milder dish, use less hot sauce or a milder variety.
• Honey: ½ cup. The sweetness that balances the heat and creates that signature hot honey flavor. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Local honey or wildflower honey works beautifully.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted. Butter adds richness and helps emulsify the hot honey glaze, creating a smooth and glossy finish.
• Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon. A touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and heat in the glaze, adding complexity and brightness. Lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
• Optional garnishes: Sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, red pepper flakes. These are for visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, while fresh herbs brighten the dish. Red pepper flakes are for an extra kick if desired.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of irresistible Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy chicken in the oven. While the oven is preheating, prepare a large baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Then, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This is important because the wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken pieces as they bake, promoting even cooking and crisping on all sides. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can still bake directly on the parchment paper, but the bottom might not get as crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is essential for crispy skin. Excess moisture on the chicken will steam in the oven rather than crisp, so make sure the chicken is thoroughly dry. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for flavorful chicken. Season both sides of each piece.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

Set up a breading station in three shallow dishes or bowls. In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This is your egg wash. The third dish will be empty and ready to receive the breaded chicken before it goes onto the baking sheet. Having everything set up in advance makes the breading process efficient and less messy.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken and dredge it first in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Press the flour mixture into the chicken to help it adhere. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it is completely submerged. Allow any excess egg wash to drip off. Finally, dredge the chicken again in the flour mixture, pressing it firmly to create a thick, even coating. The double dredging in flour, egg, and then flour again is what creates that extra crispy crust. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the wire rack-lined baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Leave some space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation and even crisping.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the baking sheet with the breaded chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken pieces you are using. Bone-in chicken will take longer than boneless. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. For bone-in pieces, baking closer to 45 minutes will ensure they are cooked through. For boneless chicken breasts, start checking around 25-30 minutes to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

Step 6: Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze

While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, honey, butter, and apple cider vinegar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze slightly thickens and the flavors meld together. Simmering allows the flavors to deepen and the glaze to become glossy and syrupy. Keep an eye on the glaze to prevent it from burning. You want it to be thick enough to coat the chicken nicely but not too thick that it becomes sticky or candy-like.

Step 7: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the oven. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously brush each piece of baked chicken with the hot honey glaze, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. If you prefer a more heavily glazed chicken, you can gently toss the baked chicken pieces in the hot honey glaze in a large bowl. Be careful not to overcrowd the bowl and break the crispy coating.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispness (Optional)

For an extra crispy and slightly caramelized finish, you can optionally broil the glazed chicken for the last 1-2 minutes. Turn your oven to broil (high setting) and place the baking sheet back in the oven. Watch the chicken very closely as it broils; it can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt very quickly. Broil just until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized, being careful not to burn the chicken. This step is optional but adds another layer of deliciousness and visual appeal.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove the glazed chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the glaze to set slightly and the chicken to retain its juices. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, and red pepper flakes (if desired) for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible combination of crispy, juicy, sweet, and spicy Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken!

Nutrition Facts

This recipe is a delicious indulgence, and while it’s not a low-calorie health food, it can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Here are approximate nutrition facts per serving, assuming 6 servings from the recipe and using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories. This is an estimate and depends heavily on the size of the chicken pieces and the amount of glaze used.
• Protein: 35-45 grams. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Fat: 20-30 grams. This includes both healthy fats from the chicken and added fats from butter and oil used in cooking. Much of this fat will render out during baking, especially if using a wire rack.
• Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams. Carbohydrates primarily come from the flour and cornstarch in the breading and the honey in the glaze.
• Sodium: 500-700 mg. Sodium content comes from salt added to the breading and naturally occurring sodium in ingredients like hot sauce and chicken. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium hot sauce and being mindful of added salt.

It’s important to note: These are estimates. For precise nutritional information, you can use online recipe analyzers, which will calculate based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced meal with plenty of vegetables and whole grains to create a healthier plate.

Preparation Time

This recipe is surprisingly manageable for a weeknight meal, especially considering the fantastic flavor payoff. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep time: 20-25 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, prepping the chicken (drying and seasoning), setting up the breading station, and making the hot honey glaze. The breading process is the most hands-on part of the prep, but setting up your station efficiently helps speed things up.
• Cook time: 35-45 minutes. Baking time will depend on the type and size of chicken pieces. Bone-in chicken thighs will take closer to 45 minutes, while boneless chicken breasts may be ready in 30-35 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
• Total time: Approximately 55-70 minutes. From start to finish, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour and a half. Much of the cooking time is hands-off while the chicken bakes in the oven, giving you time to prepare side dishes or relax while the aroma fills your kitchen.

How to Serve

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Comfort Sides:
  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the spicy and sweet chicken. Try adding roasted garlic or herbs to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Mac and Cheese: Another comfort food classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. A cheesy, gooey mac and cheese is a fantastic contrast to the crispy chicken.
  • Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread is a wonderful accompaniment to the savory and spicy chicken. Consider adding jalapenos to your cornbread for an extra kick.
  • Coleslaw: A cool and creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hot and savory chicken. Try a vinegar-based coleslaw for a lighter option.
• Healthy & Fresh Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, asparagus, or bell peppers roasted until tender and slightly caramelized are healthy and flavorful sides. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides freshness and balance to the meal. Add some crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes for texture.
  • Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious hot honey glaze. Consider adding herbs or lemon zest to your grains for extra flavor.
  • Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side dish that complements the chicken without overpowering it. Toss steamed green beans with butter and toasted almonds for added flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up!
  • Jalapeño Poppers: If you love the heat, serve alongside jalapeño poppers for an extra spicy meal.
  • Spicy Corn Salad: A corn salad with jalapeños, red onion, and cilantro can enhance the spicy notes of the chicken.
• Make it a Bowl:
  • Chicken and Grain Bowl: Combine the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken with quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of extra hot honey glaze for a complete and satisfying bowl meal.
  • Chicken Salad Bowl: Shred leftover chicken and toss it with salad greens, avocado, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious and lighter meal the next day.

No matter what sides you choose, Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is sure to be the star of the show!

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Want to take your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken to the next level? Here are eight helpful tips to ensure crispy, juicy, and flavorful results every time:

1. Dry Chicken is Key to Crispiness: As mentioned earlier, patting the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels before breading is crucial. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! The drier the chicken, the better the breading will adhere and crisp up in the oven. Don’t skip this step!
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the chicken pieces space to breathe! Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the chicken to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy chicken. Bake in batches if necessary to ensure each piece has enough room for air to circulate and crisp up evenly.
3. Use a Wire Rack for Maximum Crispiness: Baking the chicken on a wire rack placed on top of a baking sheet is highly recommended. The wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the chicken from all sides, promoting even cooking and maximum crisping, especially on the bottom.
4. Spice Up the Breading (or Tone it Down): The spice blend in this recipe is a starting point. Feel free to adjust it to your liking. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the breading. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. You can also experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chipotle powder.
5. Adjust the Hot Honey Glaze to Your Taste: The ¼ cup of hot sauce in the glaze provides a moderate level of heat. If you prefer a milder glaze, start with less hot sauce (like 2 tablespoons) and taste as you go, adding more to reach your desired spice level. For a spicier glaze, use a hotter variety of hot sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze while simmering.
6. Let the Hot Honey Glaze Simmer and Thicken: Simmering the hot honey glaze for 5-7 minutes is important for allowing the flavors to meld together and for the glaze to thicken slightly. This thicker glaze will coat the chicken better and have a more syrupy consistency. Don’t skip the simmering step!
7. Broiling for Extra Caramelization (Watch Carefully!): The optional broiling step at the end can add a beautiful caramelized and slightly crispy finish to the glaze. However, broiling can quickly lead to burning, so watch the chicken very closely during this step. Only broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly browned, and be ready to remove it from the oven immediately if it starts to burn.
8. Rest the Chicken Before Serving: Letting the glazed chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven is important for allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. It also allows the hot honey glaze to set slightly, making it less messy to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Got questions about making this delicious recipe? We’ve got answers! Here are eight frequently asked questions to help you achieve chicken perfection:

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken pieces?

A: Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. They will cook faster than bone-in chicken, so start checking for doneness around 25-30 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than bone-in thighs or drumsticks. Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can also help them cook more evenly and prevent dryness.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binder to help with structure. Double-check all other ingredients, especially your hot sauce, to ensure they are also gluten-free.

Q3: How do I store leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The crispy coating will soften slightly as it sits, but it will still be delicious.

Q4: How do I reheat leftover Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken and keep it crispy?

A: Reheating crispy chicken can be tricky. For the best results, reheat leftover chicken in the oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to crisp up the coating again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the chicken soggy.

Q5: Can I make the hot honey glaze ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the hot honey glaze ahead of time. Make the glaze as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the glaze gently in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave before glazing the chicken.

Q6: Can I adjust the spice level of this recipe?

A: Absolutely! The spice level is easily adjustable. To make it milder, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading and use less hot sauce in the glaze. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breading, use a hotter variety of hot sauce, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze while simmering.

Q7: Can I use different types of honey for the glaze?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of honey! Wildflower honey, clover honey, or even buckwheat honey will all work. Each type of honey will impart slightly different flavor notes to the glaze. For a richer flavor, try using a darker honey like buckwheat honey.

Q8: Can I freeze Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

A: While you can technically freeze cooked chicken, it’s not ideal for maintaining the crispy coating. Freezing and thawing will significantly soften the breading. If you do choose to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or air fryer as described above, but expect the coating to be less crispy than freshly made. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.

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