DINNER

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Name: Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional); Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish); Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for garnish)

Chef Olivia

December 25, 2025
5 min read

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Here is a simple recipe you can make at home.

introduction

This baked crunchy hot honey chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy inside. It has a sweet and spicy sauce that you pour over the chicken. The recipe uses panko for extra crunch and a quick hot honey sauce you can make on the stove. This dish is easy and tasty for weeknights or guests.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe when you want a fast, crunchy chicken with a sweet heat. It uses basic pantry items and bakes in one sheet pan. The panko gives a strong crunch without frying. If you like other hot honey chicken ideas, try a similar twist like this crispy hot honey feta chicken for more flavor ideas.

how to make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Follow these steps to cook the chicken and sauce. Read all steps first and get your pans ready.

Ingredients :

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your preferred heat level)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for tang)

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh chopped parsley
Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for added crunch)

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help the coating crisp up.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
If you like a little tang, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce and stir to combine.
When the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. If you like extra sauce, you can toss the chicken in the sauce for more coverage.
Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts if desired.
Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

how to serve Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Serve the chicken hot. Place slices on a plate and drizzle more sauce if you want. It pairs well with rice, roasted veggies, or a green salad. For a comfort-food twist, serve with a side like this smothered chicken and rice to soak up extra sauce.

how to store Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Let the chicken cool to room temperature first. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crisp. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes. Do not leave at room temperature more than 2 hours.

tips to make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Dry the chicken well before breading to help the coating stick.
Press the panko onto the chicken so it forms a good crust.
Use cooking spray or a light oil drizzle to help browning.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C).
Adjust hot sauce to your heat level. Add more honey if you want it sweeter.

variation (if any)

Add grated Parmesan to the panko for cheesy crunch.
Use chicken tenders for shorter bake time.
Swap hot sauce for sriracha or cayenne for different heat profiles.
Make extra sauce and serve on the side for dipping.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust baking time if pieces are thicker.

Q: Can I make this without eggs?
A: You can use buttermilk or a mixture of milk and a little flour as a binder. The egg helps the panko stick best.

Q: Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and store in the fridge for up to a week. Warm it before drizzling.

Q: Is this safe to bake instead of fry?
A: Yes. Baking gives a crisp crust with less oil and is safer and healthier.

Q: How can I make it less spicy?
A: Use less hot sauce and skip the red pepper flakes. Add more honey for sweetness.