Hey y’all! Have you ever craved something sweet, spicy, and satisfyingly crunchy? Well, this Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need! It’s perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or a weekend treat with friends. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s a healthier twist on fried chicken with a delightful crunch.
- The hot honey glaze adds a unique sweet-spicy kick.
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for any cook level.
- Bakes to crispy perfection without the need for deep-frying.
- Works for both dinner parties and casual nights in.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs of chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
Directions
Prepare the Breading
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken
In another dish, beat the eggs with the hot sauce. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish. Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Arrange the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken bakes, mix honey and a splash more hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warm and combined.
Glaze and Serve
Brush the hot honey glaze over the chicken tenders and serve immediately for the best texture!
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, bake on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Learn more about achieving the perfect bake here.
- Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
- Use organic honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Read about the benefits here.
Variations
- Buffalo Style: Substitute hot honey glaze with buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
- Asian Inspired: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and sesame seeds to the glaze.
- Lemon Pepper: Replace hot sauce with lemon juice and pepper for a zesty version.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow dishes
- Small saucepan
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Suggested Pairings
This chicken pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a tangy ranch dressing for dipping.
Pro Tips
- For extra crunch, double-coat the chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps. Explore more here.
- Preheat your baking sheet for a quicker, crispier bake.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before glazing to lock in the juices.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, just cut them into strips similar to tenders for even cooking.
- Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Swap the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).