There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of sweet and spicy flavors in Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. With its perfectly crispy coating and a drizzle of sticky hot honey glaze, this dish strikes the ideal balance between indulgent comfort food and elevated dining.
I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to satisfy my fried chicken cravings without the mess of deep frying. After some experimenting, I landed on this baked version, which delivers all the crunch you love with a fraction of the effort. Let’s dive in and discover what makes this dish so special!
Why You'll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite way to enjoy chicken. Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual dinners to weekend gatherings.
First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make while still feeling fancy enough to impress. Using simple ingredients and a straightforward baking method, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
Second, the crunch factor is unreal. Thanks to a combination of panko breadcrumbs and a clever baking technique, this chicken achieves a golden, crispy crust without a drop of oil from frying.
And let’s talk about the hot honey glaze. It’s a tantalizing mix of sweetness and heat, made with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you drizzle it over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping, it’s a flavor explosion you won’t forget.
Finally, this recipe is baked, not fried, making it a lighter alternative to traditional fried chicken. You can enjoy every delicious bite guilt-free, knowing it’s a healthier option. Ready to give it a try? Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect crispy texture and bold, sweet-spicy flavor profile.
Chicken thighs or breasts: For the juiciest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. If you prefer chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
Buttermilk marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the coating adhere better. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are the secret to achieving a super crispy crust. Their coarse texture creates the perfect crunch when baked.
Seasonings: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne gives the chicken a flavorful boost before baking. Adjust the cayenne if you want a milder version.
Hot honey glaze: This glaze combines honey, hot sauce, and a touch of butter for a silky, sweet-spicy drizzle. You can customize the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce.
Baking tools: A wire rack placed over a baking sheet is essential for even air circulation, ensuring that the chicken stays crispy all around.
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to bring this dish to life.
How To Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Creating this irresistible chicken is simpler than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfectly crispy, sweet-and-spicy masterpiece in no time.
Start by marinating your chicken. Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for maximum tenderness.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with your seasoning mix: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Stir to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Press each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides thoroughly. Place the coated chicken on the prepared wire rack.
Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
While the chicken bakes, make the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat, then stir in honey and your favorite hot sauce. Heat until just combined, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
When the chicken comes out of the oven, immediately drizzle the hot honey glaze over the top. Serve any extra sauce on the side for dipping, and watch the magic happen as the flavors come together.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), you can easily store and reheat them to enjoy later.
For short-term storage, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
To freeze, wrap each piece individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to switch things up:
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Adjust the heat: For a milder version, reduce the cayenne in the coating and use a milder hot sauce in the glaze. If you’re a spice lover, add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey glaze for extra heat.
- Try different proteins: This recipe works beautifully with chicken tenders or even pork chops. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of your protein.
- Experiment with seasonings: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a touch of ground mustard to the breadcrumb mixture for a different flavor profile.
No matter how you customize it, Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!
PrintBaked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
This baked crunchy hot honey chicken recipe combines the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Featuring a crispy baked coating and a drizzle of hot honey glaze, this dish is perfect for dinner or any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Hot Honey Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with the panko mixture. Press to ensure breadcrumbs adhere.
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- While chicken bakes, make the hot honey glaze by combining honey, hot sauce, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the baked chicken before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level of the glaze by adding more or less hot sauce.
- For an extra crispy texture, double-coat the chicken in the panko mixture.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
Leave a Reply