Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken brings the perfect combination of crispy, oven-baked chicken and a sweet-spicy hot honey glaze. It’s a lighter take on fried chicken without sacrificing the crunch or flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners, parties, or game day spreads, this dish delivers mouthwatering texture and a bold kick that keeps you coming back for more.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or breastsbuttermilkpanko breadcrumbsall-purpose floureggsgarlic powdersmoked paprikasalt and pepperhot saucesalted butterhoneysriracha (optional for extra heat)cooking spray or olive oil spray

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if available for extra crispiness.

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder.

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, then egg, then coat thoroughly in the panko mixture.

Place the coated chicken pieces on the wire rack. Lightly spray with cooking spray.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

While the chicken bakes, make the hot honey glaze: in a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat, stir in honey and hot sauce (and sriracha if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Drizzle or brush the hot honey sauce over the chicken right after baking for maximum flavor and crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes (or overnight)Baking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes (with marinating)

Variations

Use boneless chicken tenders for a quicker cook time and easier serving.

Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix for extra heat.

Try maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Serve over waffles or with a side of creamy slaw for a Southern-inspired meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until crisp and hot.Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crunchy.Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven from frozen.

FAQs

What makes the chicken crunchy if it’s baked?

The use of panko breadcrumbs and a high oven temperature creates a crispy, fried-like crust.

Is this dish really spicy?

The heat level can be adjusted by varying the amount of hot sauce and sriracha used.

Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Do I need a wire rack to bake the chicken?

A wire rack helps air circulate for even crispiness, but you can also bake directly on parchment and flip midway.

Can I make the hot honey sauce in advance?

Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry before breading and press the panko firmly onto each piece.

Can I air fry instead of baking?

Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is buttermilk necessary?

It tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick, but you can substitute with milk + lemon juice or yogurt.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked inside.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely, just keep the glaze separate until ready to serve for best texture.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that combines crispiness, heat, and sweet in every bite. It’s a healthier spin on comfort food that doesn’t hold back on flavor. Perfect for when you want something indulgent yet easy, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.