Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. With a satisfying crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside, every bite is full of flavor. Not to mention, the combination of honey and hot sauce creates a delightful balance that enhances the chicken beautifully.
Why Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to shake up their dinner routine. Not only is it easy to make, but it also gives you that satisfying crunch usually found in fried chicken, while keeping things lighter by baking. The hot honey glaze adds a sweet and spicy kick that can elevate any meal. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat added to their dinner plate. Plus, the ingredients are simple, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Making Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few steps, you’ll have a crunchy, flavorful meal that looks and tastes amazing. The process involves prepping your ingredients, coating the chicken, baking it to perfection, and then glazing it for that signature sweet and spicy kick.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts – 4 pieces
- Honey – 1 cup
- Hot Sauce – 1/4 cup
- Bread Crumbs – 1 cup
- Flour – 1 cup
- Eggs – 2 whole
- Salt – 1 tablespoon
- Pepper – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder – 1 tablespoon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps in getting that perfect baked crunch.
- Rinse and pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well.
- Prepare a breading station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs into separate bowls.
- Coat each piece of chicken lightly in flour, dip it into the eggs, and then finish with the breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking and crunchiness.
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey and hot sauce for the glaze.
- After baking, generously baste the chicken with the honey mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Broil for an additional 5 minutes to achieve an even crispier top.
- Once done, let the chicken cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 piece of chicken):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Sodium: 640mg
This meal provides a well-rounded amount of protein along with a touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is versatile. Serve it with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It can also be enjoyed on top of a green salad for a lighter option. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it in a buffet-style setting with different toppings and sides, allowing guests to create their own perfect plate.
How to Store Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
To keep leftovers, store the baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken, which will last for about 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Don’t skip the broiling step; it helps achieve that crispy outer layer.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze to suit your spice preference.
- If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken in the hot honey mixture for an hour before baking to enhance the flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Sweet BBQ Chicken: Substitute the hot sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breading for an extra kick.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Replace the hot sauce with mustard mixed with honey for a tangy alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully! They tend to be juicier and add extra flavor, but adjust the baking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko.
Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to coat it in the breadcrumb mixture right before baking for the best texture.
Conclusion
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not only a tasty dish but also a great way to enjoy a healthier version of fried chicken without compromising on flavor or texture. Its unique combination of sweetness and spice makes it a hit at any table. Give this recipe a try, and witness the smiles it brings to your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you try – happy cooking!
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Prepare a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
- Coat each piece of chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then finish with breadcrumbs.
- Place coated chicken on a greased baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a small bowl, mix the honey and hot sauce for the glaze.
- After baking, baste chicken with the honey mixture.
- Broil for an additional 5 minutes for an even crispier top.
- Let the chicken cool for a few minutes before serving.