Name: Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional); 1/2 cup honey; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Golden, crispy, oven-baked chicken with a sweet and spicy drizzle? Yes, please. This Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken brings together that crave-worthy crunch of fried chicken but skips the deep fryer entirely. Baked to a crisp perfection, then slathered in sticky hot honey, this dish is where comfort meets bold flavor.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this chicken is incredibly simple to make but packs a fiery-sweet punch. The heat is totally adjustable, so whether you like just a hint of spice or full-on sizzle, you can make it your own. And the best part? It tastes just as good leftover.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

It delivers all the texture of fried chicken with none of the oil-splatter mess. The coating stays crisp thanks to a few clever tricks, and the hot honey glaze clings beautifully to every bite. This is the kind of recipe that turns even picky eaters into believers. It also reheats well, making it a great make-ahead option.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

This recipe works best with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into strips. Chicken thighs offer juiciness and richness, while breasts are leaner and slightly firmer. If you’re looking for maximum tenderness and flavor, go for thighs. But really, any boneless cut will shine here once it gets that crunch coating and honey drizzle.

Ingredients for the Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

To build the ultimate texture and flavor, you’ll want a handful of pantry staples along with the hot honey magic. Everything has its place in helping this dish go from ordinary to unforgettable.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – The foundation. Thighs give juicier results, but either cut works well.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading adhere.
All-purpose flour – Creates a solid base for crunch.
Cornstarch – Lightens the breading for extra crispiness.
Panko breadcrumbs – Adds that signature airy, shattering crunch.
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper – Simple seasoning that delivers bold flavor.
Eggs – Acts as a glue for the breading.
Hot sauce – Optional but recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
Honey – The base for your hot honey glaze.
Red pepper flakes – Brings the heat to the honey.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds brightness to balance the sweetness.

How To Make the Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken pieces in buttermilk, seasoned with a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling bold. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge. This step locks in flavor and keeps the meat tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings. In another bowl, beat the eggs. And in a third, pour out the panko breadcrumbs. Set up your station for efficient coating.

Step 3: Coat and Bread

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mix, dip in egg, and press into panko to coat evenly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For best results, give each piece a little space so they crisp up properly.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil for a golden crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is deeply golden and crisp.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey

While the chicken bakes, heat honey, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warm and infused with spicy flavor. Adjust the heat level to your liking.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest briefly, then drizzle generously with your hot honey. Serve immediately while everything is at peak crunch and warmth.

How to Serve and Store Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken

This dish is best served hot and fresh, right after the honey hits that crispy crust. It feeds about 4 people generously. If you’re prepping ahead, store the baked chicken without the honey drizzle in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crunch. Drizzle the hot honey just before serving.

What to Serve With Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken?

H3: Creamy Coleslaw

A cool, creamy coleslaw cuts through the heat and offers a crunchy contrast.

H3: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Soft and savory potatoes complement the crispy chicken beautifully.

H3: Pickled Jalapeños

For spice lovers, a side of tangy pickled jalapeños deepens the heat.

H3: Cornbread Muffins

Slightly sweet and buttery, these pair like a charm with hot honey.

H3: Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy on the edges and earthy inside, they balance the bold chicken.

H3: Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy comfort food never fails to elevate.

H3: Watermelon and Feta Salad

Sweet, salty, and juicy—a refreshing counterpoint to the hot and crispy main.

Want More Chicken Ideas?

If this Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken hits the spot, try more chicken favorites next:

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Conclusion

This Classic Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s got the perfect texture, a sweet and spicy balance, and that oven-baked ease that makes it just right for busy nights. Whether it’s your first time making hot honey or you’re already hooked, this recipe belongs in your rotation.