Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken – Sweet Heat Meets
If you’re craving the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy kick, this Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s oven-baked, not fried, so you get all the crunch without the grease — and the hot honey glaze takes it to a whole new level. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 35 minutes |
| Total Time: | 50 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Best For: | Dinner, Parties, Family Meals |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack (for extra crispiness)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry brush (for glazing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Mix flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in the dry mix until fully coated, and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake Until Crispy
Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, warm honey, hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and cayenne. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
Brush the hot honey mixture generously over the baked chicken right before serving. Serve hot with coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted veggies for a comforting dinner.
- Slice it and serve over a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
- Add to sandwiches or wraps for a spicy, crunchy lunch.
Health Benefits of Baked Hot Honey Chicken
- Lower in Fat: Baked instead of fried, reducing oil and calories.
- Rich in Protein: Supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Antioxidant Boost: Honey contains natural antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
- Metabolism Support: Capsaicin from hot sauce can help boost metabolism.
FAQs
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake the chicken, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it in the oven to restore crispiness. Add the hot honey glaze right before serving.
Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks instead?
Absolutely. Adjust the baking time depending on the cut — wings may need about 25 minutes, while drumsticks may need up to 40 minutes.
What if I want it less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the cayenne and use a milder hot sauce. You’ll still get that sweet and tangy flavor without the heat.
Can I air fry this recipe?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for an even crispier finish.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate sweet-and-spicy comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Baking keeps it lighter without sacrificing that irresistible crunch, and the hot honey glaze turns every bite into a flavor explosion. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or as a show-stopping party dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it once, and it will become a staple in your meal rotation.
