Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate fusion of crispy, spicy, and sweet. This dish features juicy chicken coated in a crunchy breading and topped with a drizzle of homemade hot honey for a fiery kick. It’s baked to perfection, making it a healthier alternative to fried chicken without compromising on texture or flavor.

Ingredients

To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need the following:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup crushed cornflakes
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Hot Honey:

1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Preparing the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. Combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Making the Crunchy Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle in olive oil and toss until evenly coated. This mixture will ensure the chicken bakes up golden and crispy.

Coating and Baking the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Arrange the chicken on the baking sheet.

Baking to Crispy Perfection

Bake the chicken for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it’s golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

Preparing the Hot Honey

While the chicken bakes, prepare the hot honey. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as honey can burn easily.

Serving the Chicken

Remove the baked chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the warm hot honey generously over each piece, or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Customization Ideas

Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper in the marinade or the red pepper flakes in the honey.
Chicken Cuts: Use boneless chicken breasts or tenders for a quicker cooking option.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed potato chips or pretzels to the breadcrumb mixture for unique textures and flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness. The hot honey can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, such as roasted sweet potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a truly indulgent meal, serve with creamy coleslaw and a slice of cornbread.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken combines the best of bold flavors and healthier cooking methods. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible crunch and sweet-spicy kick.