Description
Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a healthier twist on classic fried chicken, featuring a crispy breadcrumb coating and a sweet-spicy hot honey glaze. Perfect for dinner, game day, or a weekend treat, this dish balances texture and flavor beautifully.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 2 pounds
- Flour: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 2 cups
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Hot Honey Glaze:
- Honey: 1/3 cup
- Hot Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a greased wire rack on top.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Fill three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dip chicken into flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs. Press gently to coat evenly.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place chicken on the wire rack and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and cayenne pepper over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- Glaze the Chicken:
- Brush the glaze generously over the baked chicken. Add extra glaze before serving if desired.
Notes
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- To reduce spice, use less cayenne or hot sauce.
- Avoid glazing too early to maintain crispiness.