Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both crispy and finger-licking good, you’ve just found it with this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making it a hit for dinner parties, family meals, or even a casual night in. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- It’s baked, not fried, for a healthier alternative.
- Deliciously crispy coating that satisfies every craving.
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
- Quick and easy prep, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Coating
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture and shake off the excess. Then coat each piece in panko breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While the chicken bakes, combine honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and heated through.
Serve It Up
Once the chicken is done, drizzle with the hot honey sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For even more crunch, try using crushed cornflakes in place of panko. Learn more.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce.
- Check the internal temperature of chicken to ensure it’s at least 165°F (74°C) for safety. Food Safety Guide.
Variations
- Garlic Parmesan: Replace hot sauce with garlic powder and parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
- Sweet Chili: Add sweet chili sauce instead of hot sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- BBQ Honey: Mix honey with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky touch.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Saucepan
- Large mixing bowls
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or crispy coleslaw for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after dredging to allow the coating to adhere better.
- Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking and ensure juiciness. Serious Eats Guide.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the hot honey sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can use chicken breasts, but they may require a slightly longer baking time. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness, rather than using a microwave.