Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! I actually prefer thighs sometimes because they stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time - they might need 5-10 minutes longer since they're thicker. Keep an eye on them and use your thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. The hot honey glaze works just as beautifully on thighs!

How can I make this gluten-free?

Easy peasy! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (I like the 1:1 baking mixes) and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you'll still get that amazing crunch without the gluten. Just double-check your hot sauce label if you're super sensitive.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead of baking?

Oh my gosh, yes! My air fryer version comes out even crispier. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Then brush with the glaze and air fry for 2 more minutes. The basket gives amazing airflow for that perfect golden crunch. Just don't overcrowd - cook in batches if needed.

What if I don't have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch, but they won't get quite as crispy. If that's all you have, try toasting them in a dry pan first to crisp them up. Or get creative - crushed cornflakes or even crushed pork rinds (for low-carb) make fun alternatives with great texture!

How spicy is this really?

With the standard 1/4 cup hot sauce, it's got a nice kick but isn't overwhelming. My kids eat it (with extra honey on the side!). For milder, use half the hot sauce. For fire lovers? Double it! The honey balances the heat beautifully either way. You can always serve extra hot sauce at the table for those who want more.

1 Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe You'll Crave

Name: 1 Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe You'll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup hot sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp melted butter

1 Perfect Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe You’ll Crave

Print Recipe

Crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, baked to perfection for a healthier twist on a classic favorite.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup hot sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then the beaten eggs, and finally the panko breadcrumbs.
Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, honey, and melted butter.
Brush the hot honey glaze over the baked chicken and return to the oven for 5 minutes.
Serve immediately with extra glaze on the side.

Notes

For extra crispiness, spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before baking.
Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spice level.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 350
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: baked chicken, hot honey chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/baked-crunchy-hot-honey-chicken-recipe/