Go Back

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a healthier, flavorful dish combining crispy baked chicken with a sweet-spicy hot honey glaze. It’s perfect for those seeking bold flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: Bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks work best for juicy, flavorful meat. Boneless options can be used for quicker cooking.
  • Buttermilk: Acts as a tenderizer infusing the chicken with moisture and tang.
  • Flour & Cornstarch: The combination creates an extra-crispy coating.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds a light airy crunch.
  • Eggs: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken.
  • Spices: Paprika garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt for robust flavor.
  • Hot Honey: A mixture of honey red pepper flakes, and a dash of vinegar for balance.
  • Olive Oil Spray: Ensures an even golden-brown finish during baking.

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a large bowl, combine buttermilk with a tablespoon of hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Coating:

  • In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and half of the spices.
  • In another bowl, whisk eggs with a splash of water.
  • In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with the remaining spices.

Coat the Chicken:

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
  • Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, dip in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the spiced panko breadcrumbs.

Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation.
  • Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil.
  • Bake for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Prepare the Hot Honey:

  • In a small saucepan, warm honey with red pepper flakes and a dash of apple cider vinegar over low heat for 5 minutes.
  • Let it cool slightly before drizzling.

Serve:

  • Drizzle the hot honey generously over the baked chicken just before serving.

Notes

  • Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the juicier and more flavorful it will be.
  • Crispier Coating: Use a wire rack to bake the chicken instead of placing it directly on the baking sheet.
  • Custom Spice Blend: Adjust the spice levels in both the coating and hot honey according to your preference.
  • Double Coating: For extra crunch, double-dip in the egg and panko mixture.
  • Leftovers: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.