There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of crispy baked chicken paired with the sweet heat of hot honey drizzled over the top. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending savory and spicy-sweet flavors for a crowd-pleasing dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

I first experimented with this recipe after tasting hot honey at a local market, and it instantly became a staple in our home. The blend of the crunchy breading and sticky honey glaze is the perfect match for game days, casual dinners, or when you just want something a little different.

Why You'll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Get ready to add a new family favorite to your recipe rotation! Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is everything you love about fried chicken but healthier, quicker, and just as satisfying.

First, this recipe eliminates the mess and extra calories of frying without sacrificing that golden, crispy texture. A clever mix of panko breadcrumbs, spices, and a drizzle of oil ensures your chicken gets perfectly crisp in the oven.

Second, the hot honey glaze is a game-changer. Made with real honey and a touch of heat from chili flakes or hot sauce, it adds a flavor boost that elevates this dish beyond your standard baked chicken recipe.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe is always a hit.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples and fresh chicken, but each ingredient is carefully chosen to pack in flavor and texture.

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Both work beautifully in this recipe. Thighs stay juicy, but if you prefer white meat, just make sure to pound the breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The secret to achieving that crunchy exterior! Panko’s airy texture crisps up better than traditional breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, use seasoned panko or add your own spices.
Spices: A mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper ensures every bite is well-seasoned. Adjust the cayenne for more or less heat.
Honey: Opt for a high-quality, raw honey if you can – it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Hot Sauce or Chili Flakes: The heat level is up to you. Use your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to customize the spice in your glaze.
Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spraying the breaded chicken before baking gives it a perfectly golden, crisp crust without frying.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Baking sheet with a wire rack for even cooking.
A small saucepan to prepare the hot honey glaze.

How To Make Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Creating this crave-worthy dish is as simple as breading, baking, and glazing. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This allows the chicken to crisp up on all sides while baking.
Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels – this helps the coating stick better. If using breasts, pound them to an even thickness for quicker, even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Set Up Your Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs with a splash of milk. In another, mix the panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Bread the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres. Place the breaded chicken onto the prepared wire rack.
Bake Until Crispy
Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil for that golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Make the Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken bakes, heat ½ cup honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce or ½ teaspoon chili flakes, depending on your spice preference. Once warm and slightly runny, remove from heat.
Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the hot honey generously over the crispy chicken just before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flair.

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep your chicken fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the glaze separate if you can, to maintain the crunch.
Freezer: Freeze the breaded, baked chicken (without the glaze) in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F until warmed through and crisp.
Reheating Tips: To preserve the crispy texture, reheat in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure your hot sauce is gluten-free for a safe, delicious alternative.
Adjust the Heat: For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne in the breading and opt for a sweeter hot honey glaze by adding less hot sauce.
Try Different Proteins: This method works equally well with fish fillets or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add a Crunchy Coating Twist: Incorporate crushed cornflakes or crushed pretzels into the breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch.
Make It a Sandwich: Serve the chicken on a toasted brioche bun with a drizzle of hot honey, coleslaw, and pickles for a spicy-sweet sandwich.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, it’s time to dig in. With its irresistible crunch and bold glaze, this dish will quickly become a go-to for weeknights, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a little extra flavor. So preheat your oven, grab the hot honey, and get ready to impress your taste buds!