Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

 

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory crunch of perfectly baked chicken with a sweet and spicy honey sauce. There’s something truly special about the combination of crunchy texture and bold flavors that makes this dish an instant favorite for family dinners and gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a family meal or casual get-together. The ease of preparation and baking means you can whip it up even on busy weeknights. Plus, the baked version is heart-healthy compared to traditional fried chicken, allowing you to enjoy that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. The hot honey sauce adds just the right kick of heat, making each bite flavorful and memorable. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a kitchen pro, Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is an impressive dish that everyone will ask for seconds.

How to Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Creating this dish is as straightforward as it is enjoyable. Let’s break it down step-by-step to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly juicy and crunchy.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken tenders or breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Cooking spray

Directions:

1. 
   

   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

   
   
2. 
   

   In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until combined.

   
   
3. 
   

   In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.

   
   
4. 
   

   Place the panko breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl.

   
   
5. 
   

   Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.

   
   
6. 
   

   Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.

   
   
7. 
   

   Coat the chicken strips with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they adhere well.

   
   
8. 
   

   Arrange the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.

   
   
9. 
   

   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crunchy.

   
   
10. 
    

    While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce by combining honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and warmed through, then remove from heat.

    
    
11. 
    

    Once the chicken is finished baking, remove it from the oven and either drizzle it with the hot honey sauce or serve the sauce on the side.

    
    
12. 
    

    Serve hot with additional sauce as desired.

    
    

Pro Tips for Success with Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

1. 
   

   Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and quality chicken pieces will elevate the flavor of your dish.

   
   
2. 
   

   Don’t Skip the Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are essential for achieving that unparalleled crunch. Avoid substituting with regular breadcrumbs, as they don’t give the same texture.

   
   
3. 
   

   Watch Your Bake Time: Depending on your oven, cooking times may vary. Start checking at the 20-minute mark to ensure the chicken doesn’t overcook.

   
   
4. 
   

   Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, feel free to add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.

   
   
5. 
   

   Let Them Cool: Allow the chicken strips to cool for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This will maintain their crunch when you serve them.

   
   
6. 
   

   Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the chicken strips right after they come out of the oven. They are at their crunchiest when fresh!

   
   

Flavor Variations for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

1. 
   

   Garlic Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumbs. This adds a cheesy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.

   
   
2. 
   

   Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist that complements the heat of the honey sauce.

   
   
3. 
   

   Coconut Flavor: For a tropical flair, replace half of the panko with shredded coconut to create a crunchy and sweet response to the honey sauce.

   
   
4. 
   

   Asian Inspired: Incorporate sesame seeds into the panko and use soy sauce in place of some of the hot sauce in the honey mixture for an Asian twist.

   
   
5. 
   

   BBQ Twist: Instead of hot sauce, use your favorite BBQ sauce in the honey mixture for a sweet and tangy variation that children love.

   
   

Serving Suggestions for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Looking to complement your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken? Here are some serving ideas:

• 
  

  Salads: Serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

  
  
• 
  

  Dips: Offer additional dipping sauces like ranch or a cool yogurt sauce on the side for a refreshing contrast.

  
  
• 
  

  Grains: Pair with a side of fluffy quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious hot honey sauce.

  
  
• 
  

  Roasted Veggies: Accompany the chicken with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or zucchini for a nutritious side.

  
  
• 
  

  Wraps: Use leftover chicken in a wrap with your favorite veggies and a drizzle of the hot honey for a delicious lunch.

  
  

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To keep your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken fresh:

• 
  

  Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to revive the crunch.

  
  
• 
  

  Freezing: You can freeze uncooked breaded chicken strips for up to three months. Just make sure to place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

  
  
• 
  

  Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked chicken strips in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispy coating.

  
  

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|———————–|————-|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the pieces.

Can I make this dish in an air fryer?

Yes, an air fryer is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken strips for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will help you achieve that crispy texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the process remains the same!

What is the best way to adjust the spiciness of the hot honey sauce?

The heat level can be easily customized. Start with less hot sauce and taste. You can always add more to suit your taste. For a milder option, consider using a sweet chili sauce instead.

Can I bake the chicken strips ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven to crisp them up again.

Final Thoughts

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is the perfect meal for any occasion, offering a tantalizing combination of flavors and textures that will delight everyone at the table. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation steps, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the flavor variations and serving suggestions. Your family and friends are sure to love this tasty treat, making it a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again!

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