Crispy, oven-baked chicken meets a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze in this easy, family-approved dinner. It’s packed with flavor, kid-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights. Healthier than fried but just as satisfying, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!
Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey
When it comes to weeknight dinners, families everywhere want meals that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and above all, delicious. Enter Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey—a dish that checks all the boxes! This irresistible combination of crispy baked chicken and sweet-spicy hot honey glaze is destined to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking to shake up your dinner rotation or impress guests at your next gathering, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of flavors and textures.
In this blog post, we’ll share tips, tricks, and inspiration to make this dish perfect for every occasion. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of crunchy baked chicken bliss!
Ingredients for Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey:
- boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- buttermilk
- garlic powder
- paprika
- salt + pepper
- crushed cornflakes
- grated Parmesan cheese
- honey
- hot sauce
- butter
Keep reading for full ingredient list + recipe, below
Why You’ll Love Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey
This dish is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- Kid-Approved Crunch: The crispy coating on this chicken mimics fried chicken without all the oil, making it a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor.
- Grown-Up Gourmet Flavors: The hot honey glaze elevates the dish, delivering a sweet and spicy punch that adults adore.
- Simple Prep, Big Results: With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward process, this meal is manageable for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions.
- Customizable Heat Level: Whether you’re feeding spice enthusiasts or little ones with tender palates, the hot honey can be adjusted to your family’s taste.
Can I prepare this dinner ahead?
Absolutely! To save time, you can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and seasonings the night before. You can also crush the cornflakes and prepare the coating in advance. When you’re ready to cook, just coat the chicken, bake, and drizzle with hot honey. Prepping ahead makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
What side dishes pair well?
This crispy baked chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides! Here are a few favorites:
- Roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a cozy vibe
- Fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the heat
- Cornbread or buttery biscuits for a Southern-inspired touch
Mix and match to create your ideal meal!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain the crunch, pop the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving—it’ll make the coating soggy. The hot honey sauce can be stored separately and drizzled on fresh before serving.
More easy chicken dinner recipes:
• Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Korean Fried Chicken Tenders
• Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
• Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey is a recipe that truly has it all: crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors that’ll please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it as part of a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
So grab your shopping list, gather the family, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. And don’t forget to let everyone drizzle on their own hot honey glaze—it’s half the fun!
Remember to pin this recipe or share it with your friends! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed this dish and what sides you paired it with. We can’t wait to hear about your family’s new favorite dinner.
Baked Crunchy Chicken with Hot Honey
Crispy baked chicken meets a drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey in this irresistible dinner! Crunchy, golden, and packed with flavor — it's comfort food with a kick!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 tbsp. hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp. butter, melted
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for best results).
- In a shallow bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with Parmesan cheese.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Coat each piece thoroughly in the cornflake mixture and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and melted butter. Heat gently over low heat, stirring until combined.
- Drizzle the hot honey over the crispy chicken right before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
