There’s nothing like the irresistible combination of crispy chicken and a sweet, spicy glaze. This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken delivers all the indulgence of fried chicken with a lighter, oven-baked twist. Each bite is coated in a perfectly crisp crust and drizzled with a hot honey glaze that balances heat and sweetness.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with ways to recreate my favorite takeout-style chicken at home. It’s now a family favorite that appears on our dinner table anytime we’re craving comfort food with a spicy kick.

Why You'll Love This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Prepare to meet your new obsession. This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken hits every note, from crispy texture to mouthwatering flavor.

First off, it’s healthier than traditional fried chicken. By baking instead of frying, you save on excess oil while still achieving that golden, crunchy coating thanks to panko breadcrumbs and a secret oven hack.

The hot honey glaze is a game-changer. It combines honey, butter, and a touch of hot sauce to create a sweet and spicy glaze that’s utterly addictive.

This dish is also versatile. Serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite veggies for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Lastly, it’s simple to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and a little time in the oven. Whether you’re hosting friends or prepping a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its perfectly chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the ultimate crunch and flavor-packed glaze.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best here. They’re juicy and flavorful, ensuring the chicken stays tender beneath the crunchy coating. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips.
Buttermilk: This acts as a tenderizer and helps the coating stick to the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are the key to achieving an ultra-crispy crust. Toasting them lightly before breading adds an extra layer of crunch.
Hot Honey Glaze: The star of the show is the glaze made from honey, hot sauce, and a touch of butter. Adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.
Spices: A mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper seasons the breadcrumbs perfectly, adding depth to the chicken’s flavor.

For equipment, you’ll need a baking sheet, a wire rack, and a small saucepan for the glaze.

How to Make This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Making this chicken is a straightforward process that guarantees delicious results. Let’s break it down step by step:

Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken in a bowl with buttermilk and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.
Toast the Breadcrumbs
While the chicken marinates, spread panko breadcrumbs on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. This step ensures the coating stays crunchy after baking.
Bread the Chicken
Mix the toasted breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, let the excess drip off, and coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake to Perfection
Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray the chicken lightly with cooking oil to help it crisp up. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. The chicken is ready when it’s golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Make the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey and hot sauce, whisking until smooth. Taste and adjust for heat.
Drizzle and Serve
Once the chicken is out of the oven, drizzle the hot honey glaze generously over each piece. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible flavor and crunch.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken for maximum freshness.

Refrigerate: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the glaze separate if possible to maintain the crunch.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Freeze the glaze in a separate container.
Reheat: To reheat, bake the chicken in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Warm the glaze in a microwave or saucepan before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

Spicier Glaze: Add extra cayenne pepper or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for more heat.
Gluten-Free: Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Different Proteins: Try this recipe with shrimp or pork chops for a fun twist.
Air Fryer Option: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for a faster, even crispier version.
Honey Mustard Glaze: If you’re not into spice, replace the hot sauce with Dijon mustard for a tangy, sweet glaze.

Experiment and make it your own – the possibilities are endless!

This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its combination of crispy, tender chicken and an unforgettable glaze, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make it tonight and watch it disappear!