This Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken is a treat for your taste buds! With a crunchy coating and a spicy-sweet glaze, it’s the perfect mix of flavors. You won’t want to stop at just one piece!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish in the oven. It saves clean-up time, and I get to enjoy that crispy goodness without frying. Perfect for a cozy dinner! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. However, chicken breasts work great too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try skinless turkey breasts.
Buttermilk: It makes the chicken tender and flavorful. If you don’t have buttermilk at home, you can easily make a substitute with milk and vinegar (or lemon juice). Just mix 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for coating the chicken, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. The texture will still be delicious!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, which balances the heat from the hot sauce. If you want a different flavor, you could substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique twist.
Hot Sauce: I recommend Frank’s RedHot for its flavor, but feel free to use any hot sauce you love! Sriracha or a homemade chili paste can add a different kick.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Extra Crispy?
Making crispy baked chicken takes a little technique, but it’s easier than you might think! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect crunch:
- Coat Well: After dredging the chicken in the flour mixture, press it in firmly. This helps ensure the coating sticks well during baking.
- Bake on a Rack: If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, making all sides crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Space out the chicken on the baking sheet. Giving each piece room helps them crisp up instead of steaming together.
- Use High Heat: Baking at 425°F helps achieve that nice crispy finish. The high temperature is key to less moisture and more crunch!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crispy, delicious hot honey chicken that’s sure to impress! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, 25-30 minutes to bake, and if you choose to marinate your chicken, you can allow an hour (or even overnight) for soaking in buttermilk. So, plan for around 40 minutes of cooking time plus your preferred marinade time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While your oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Soak the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs (or breasts) and place them in a bowl filled with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This not only adds flavor but makes the chicken super tender. If you have time, you can soak them for up to 4 hours or even overnight in the fridge.
3. Mix the Coating:
In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. This mixture will give your chicken a tasty and crispy crust!
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Once the chicken has soaked, take each piece out and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure it coats well. This helps create that wonderful crispy layer.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the coated chicken pieces on your prepared baking sheet. Before baking, spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with some olive oil to promote crispiness.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the chicken in the oven and bake them for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Make Hot Honey Glaze:
While the chicken is baking, it’s time to whip up the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, and butter. Stir everything together until it’s melted and smooth. This glaze is where the delicious sweet-heat comes from!
8. Glaze the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, take it out of the oven and brush that yummy hot honey glaze generously over each piece. Yum!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hot honey chicken immediately! If you like, you can garnish it with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or even add a light sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit more heat.
Enjoy your crispy, spicy, and sweet hot honey chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it first. The best way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How Long Will Leftover Chicken Last In the Fridge?
Leftover hot honey chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before storing. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave.
Can I Make the Hot Honey Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hot honey glaze in advance and store it in a jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a gentle reheat on the stove or in the microwave before drizzling it over the chicken.
What Can I Serve With Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice or quinoa, with roasted vegetables, or alongside a fresh salad. For a more indulgent option, try it with mac and cheese or loaded potato wedges!
