Name: Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Easy Dinner with Sweet & Spicy Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as sriracha); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

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🔥 Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken: An Easy Dinner with Sweet & Spicy Glaze 🍯🌶️

1. Introduction

Are you craving a dinner that perfectly balances crispy texture with a bold, spicy honey glaze? Look no further than hot honey chicken. This baked crunchy hot honey chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a satisfyingly crispy coating and a sweet-and-spicy glaze that will keep everyone coming back for more. It’s an irresistible dish that captures the excitement of flavor, easy to make on a busy weeknight, and loaded with sensory delights from the aromatic spices to the sticky, crunchy exterior.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for quick dinners.
Delivers a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful chicken inside.
Features a zesty, spicy honey glaze that’s both sweet and fiery.

Easy to customize with your favorite spices or side dishes.
An impressive dish that feels gourmet but is simple enough for beginners.

3. Ingredient Notes

Choosing high-quality and fresh ingredients steps up the flavor of your hot honey chicken. Opt for skinless, boneless chicken thighs for juiciness and ease of cooking, but chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. For the coating, plain panko breadcrumbs deliver a crisp finish, but seasoned varieties can add extra flavor.

The hot honey — a key component — creates that satisfying spicy-sweet glaze. Look for artisanal or homemade hot honey to control the heat level and flavor complexity. As for the spices, smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky aroma, while cayenne pepper enhances the heat — use more or less based on your spice tolerance.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To achieve record-perfect crunch and even baking, consider using the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer. It’s versatile for crisping without excess oil, making your hot honey chicken fantastic and healthier. A good baking sheet (like this T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set) will help evenly bake and crisp your chicken. Don’t forget a sturdy mixing bowl, such as the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer, to whip up your glaze with ease.

5. How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry—this key step ensures crispiness. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken piece into a beaten egg, then coat generously with the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra crunch, press the breading onto the chicken firmly.

Place the coated chicken pieces on a greased baking sheet, spaced evenly. Slide into the oven, baking for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will fill with a toasty aroma—the edges should look crispy and inviting.

The Glaze

While the chicken bakes, prepare the spicy honey glaze. Mix hot honey with a splash of soy sauce, a pinch of cayenne, and a dash of garlic powder. When the chicken is done, brush generously with the glaze and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. finish with a final brush of glaze for that sticky, crunchy coating that’s both sweet and fiery.

6. Expert Tips for Success

To maximize crunch and flavor, ensure your chicken is patted dry before breading. Using a wire rack on top of your baking sheet allows air to circulate for an even crisp. Brushing with glaze during the final minutes prevents burning and keeps the sauce sticky and vibrant. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped scallions after baking.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you prefer a dairy-free or gluten-free version, swap panko for crushed rice crackers or almond flour. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. Vegetarian options include crispy eggplant slices coated similarly and glazed with spicy honey. This versatility makes hot honey chicken suitable for many dietary needs.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the coating. For best results, reapply a fresh coat of glaze before reheating to preserve flavor and sticky texture.

9. FAQ

Can I make hot honey chicken in an air fryer?

Absolutely! The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes it easy to achieve that crispy exterior without deep frying. Simply follow the breading instructions, then air fry at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

How spicy is hot honey chicken?

The spice level depends on the hot honey and cayenne amount used. You can adjust it to your preferred heat—less cayenne for milder, or more for extra fiery bites. It’s a perfect balance of sweet heat that appeals to spice lovers and those with milder tastes alike.

What side dishes pair well with hot honey chicken?

This dish works beautifully with simple sides like refreshing cucumber salads or flavorful rice bowls. For hearty eaters, try roasted sweet potatoes or a creamy coleslaw.

10. Conclusion

Ready to impress your family or guests with a dish that combines crispy perfection with a tantalizing spicy honey glaze? This baked crunchy hot honey chicken recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and visually stunning dinner. With its irresistible balance of textures and flavors, it’s destined to become a new staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy cooking—your taste buds will thank you!