Get ready to meet your new weeknight obsession: the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe! This dish is everything you want in a chicken dinner—extra crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and absolutely bursting with flavor. The magic really happens with that addictive hot honey glaze: sweet, spicy, and sticky, it transforms classic bake-and-breaded chicken into something you seriously won’t be able to stop eating. If you’re searching for a mouthwatering dinner with a restaurant vibe but simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe is about to become your go-to.

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is how everyday ingredients come together to create such big, bold flavors. Each component plays a starring role, ensuring perfect texture and a craveable finish.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs make this dish juicy and tender—choose thighs for extra flavor.
All-purpose flour: Creates a foundation for coating, helping everything stick while adding some crispiness.
Salt: Enhances every bite by seasoning the chicken all the way through.
Black pepper: Brings a gentle warmth and balances the flavors.
Garlic powder: Adds savory depth that pairs perfectly with the hot honey.
Onion powder: Subtle sweetness and onion flavor round out the spice blend.
Smoked paprika (optional): A little smoky flavor takes the breading to the next level.
Eggs: Make sure the crispy panko layer stays put and help seal in moisture.
Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to shatteringly crisp chicken—it’s extra crunchy!
Honey: Sweetens the sauce and gives it that lovely sticky texture.
Hot sauce: Delivers the fiery kick; pick your favorite brand and adjust to taste.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness, creating a silky-smooth hot honey glaze.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who truly love the heat, sprinkle these in.
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional): A splash of tang brightens up all the sweet and spicy flavors.
Fresh chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts (optional): Perfect for that final burst of color and a little added texture.

How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—not only does this make cleanup a breeze, but it also helps prevent sticking and promotes even crisping. Taking a minute to set this up makes the rest of your cooking experience so much smoother.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry—they’ll crisp up better this way. Set up three shallow dishes: one with your seasoned flour mixture (flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika if you like), one with your beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each piece of chicken first in the flour (tap off excess), then dip it in the egg, finishing with a generous panko crust. Press gently so every bit of chicken gets maximum crunch in the finished Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Arrange your beautifully breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Give them a quick spritz with cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil over the top—this is the secret to a golden, deep crunch without frying. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway if you can, until the exterior is gorgeously crisp and the chicken inside registers 165°F / 74°C. Don’t rush; you want a truly crunchy, golden crust!

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While your chicken bakes, it’s time to whip up the pièce de résistance: the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling fiery). Heat gently and stir until silky and smooth—then taste. If you love a little tang to balance everything out, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This combo will create the addictive flavors that make the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe unforgettable.

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is perfectly baked, take it straight from the oven and drizzle over that luscious, spicy hot honey sauce. For more intense flavor, don’t be shy—toss the pieces in a bowl with the sauce for thorough coverage. Let them rest for a minute so the glaze can set and soak into the crispy coating.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your gorgeous chicken to a platter. Sprinkle liberally with chopped parsley for freshness and pops of green; add a shower of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired for even more crunch. This last step makes every plate look restaurant-worthy and brings irresistible contrast to each bite.

How to Serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing perks up the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe like a handful of fresh garnishes. A scattering of chopped parsley not only adds color but brings a light herbal note to balance the sweet heat. Toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts make the plate pop visually and lend a satisfying extra crunch with every mouthful.

Side Dishes

This chicken begs for sides that can either cool things down or soak up the extra sauce. Think ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a simple herby rice. If you’re aiming for something light, a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables work beautifully with the bold, punchy flavors of the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch things up by slicing the chicken and piling it onto a toasted brioche bun with a little slaw for a next-level sandwich, or chop it and toss through a salad with crunchy vegetables for a spicy protein boost. Turn leftovers into chicken wraps with sliced avocado and a drizzle of extra hot honey—no one will ever know they weren’t fresh out of the oven!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got extra Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe, store the cooled pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the sauce separate if possible, so the coating stays as crisp as possible until you’re ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

Freeze fully baked and cooled (but not yet sauced) chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months—simply thaw in the fridge overnight when you want that midweek treat. Store hot honey sauce separately in a tightly sealed jar.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a 375°F oven until it’s hot and crisp again, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it will soften the breading. Warm the hot honey sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, then drizzle over just before serving to recreate that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

Is the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe very spicy?

The spice level is totally up to you! Use less hot sauce for a milder flavor or increase the amount and add red pepper flakes for serious heat lovers. The honey sweetens things up, so the result is a balanced, crowd-pleasing kick.

Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts or thighs?

Absolutely—chicken tenders work perfectly and make the dish even more kid-friendly. Just reduce the baking time slightly, as they’ll cook faster and stay juicy.

What’s the best hot sauce to use for this recipe?

Any hot sauce you love will work, from classic Frank’s RedHot to sriracha or your favorite local brand. The flavor profile of your chosen sauce will slightly shift the glaze, so pick based on your own taste and spice tolerance.

Can I make the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

Yes—simply swap in your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the coating and gluten-free panko bread crumbs. Check labels to ensure your hot sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What are good vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

Tofu or thick slices of eggplant can be coated and baked using the same breading and then finished with the hot honey glaze. The preparation process is almost identical, and you’ll still get that craveable crunch and sticky-sweet heat.

Final Thoughts

If you try just one new dinner this week, make it the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe! It’s a dish that delivers on every craving—crunchy, sweet, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a regular request at your table; it’s simply that irresistible. Gather your ingredients and get cooking—you’re in for a memorable, mouthwatering treat!

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 12 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken with a crispy coating, finished with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine 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 first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help the coating crisp up. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Make the Hot Honey Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like a little tang, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce and stir to combine.
Glaze the Chicken: When the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. If you like extra sauce, you can toss the chicken in the sauce for more coverage.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American