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The Ultimate Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe: A Healthier Take on a Flavor Sensation

The Ultimate Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe: A Healthier Take on a Flavor Sensation
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If you love the irresistible combo of crispy, crunchy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is your new go-to. It’s healthier than deep-fried versions but just as satisfying, with a golden, crunchy crust and a sticky, flavorful honey glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

  • ¼ cup honey

  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

For Garnish (optional):

  • Fresh chopped parsley

  • Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

  2. Prepare the Chicken
    Pat chicken dry.

    • In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

    • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.

    • In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
      Coat each chicken piece: flour → egg → breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

  3. Bake the Chicken
    Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
    Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

  4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce
    In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium, stirring until smooth and butter is melted.
    Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist, if desired.

  5. Glaze the Chicken
    Drizzle the hot honey sauce over baked chicken, or toss the chicken in the sauce for more coverage.

  6. Garnish and Serve
    Sprinkle with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Crispier Chicken: Lightly spraying the breaded chicken with cooking spray helps achieve a golden, crunchy crust.

  • Adjust Heat: Vary the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

  • Make Ahead: Chicken can be breaded and refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Bake when ready.

  • Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest coating; try mixing in a bit of Parmesan for added flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/the-ultimate-baked-crunchy-hot-honey-chicken-recipe-a-healthier-take-on-a-flavor-sensation/

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