Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something crispy and flavorful. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a crunchy coating, all perfectly drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a mouthwatering meal that’s ideal for family dinners or impressing guests at casual gatherings.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Protein: 26 grams
- Carbohydrates: 33 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 450 mg
Why Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not just another chicken recipe. It stands out thanks to the combination of crispy panko breadcrumbs and the exciting addition of hot honey. The chicken stays juicy inside while the outside bakes to a delightful golden finish. This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your spice level—whether you’re craving a mild sweetness or a fiery kick. Plus, it’s a healthier option since you can bake it instead of frying, making it a great guilt-free dinner choice.
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy clean-up after a delicious meal.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, place the flour. In yet another bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. This setup will create a simple breadcrumb coating process that adds texture to your chicken.
Step 3: Coating
Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip the thigh in the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Arrange the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Baking
Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to enhance crispiness and color. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. To ensure it’s fully cooked, you can check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Finishing
In a small saucepan, combine honey and hot sauce over low heat. Warm the mixture gently until it’s nicely combined. Just before serving, drizzle this hot honey over the baked chicken, giving it a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Serve your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken with a side of coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice. Pairing it with a refreshing salad balances the meal beautifully. For a cozy dinner, place the chicken on a large platter and let everyone dive in.
How to Store Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
To store leftovers, place the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken thighs are recommended for their richness and moisture, but you could use chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Breadcrumbs Matter: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs, so avoid substituting unless necessary.
- Spice to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey mix to suit your spice preference.
- Make it a Meal: Serving with mashed potatoes or a hearty grain can turn this dish into a complete meal.
- Pre-Made Variations: If you’re short on time, consider using a store-bought hot honey for an easier option.
Delicious Variations
Try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture such as cayenne pepper for extra heat or dried herbs like oregano for an Italian twist. You can also swap out chicken for cauliflower for a vegan version!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, skinless chicken thighs will also work well! Just be aware that the texture might be slightly less crispy.
2. What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though they may not provide the same crunch. Crushing cornflakes is another great alternative.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The easiest way to check is by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and the honey sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and bake when you’re ready to serve.
5. What type of hot sauce is best to use?
Use your favorite hot sauce! Franks RedHot, Sriracha, or any other brand you enjoy can work well depending on your preferred spice level.
Conclusion
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Its crispy exterior and sweet-spicy glaze make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe will impress. So gather your ingredients and get started—your taste buds will thank you!
