Few dishes satisfy the craving for both crunch and heat like Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken. This oven-baked delight combines golden, panko-crusted chicken with a sticky, spicy honey glaze that creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Unlike traditional fried chicken, this recipe is healthier, cleaner, and just as indulgent—without sacrificing any crispiness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or even casual weekend entertaining.

Ingredients

Chicken:
- 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs, skin-on
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crisp)
Hot Honey Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- 2–3 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Finishing & Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Thinly sliced red chili

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it, then place a wire rack on top. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays crispy.
Prepare the Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan (if using).
Coat the Chicken:
Pat chicken pieces dry. Dredge each piece in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick.
Bake the Chicken:
Place coated chicken on the wire rack. Spray lightly with cooking oil or brush with olive oil. Bake 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crunchy.
Prepare Hot Honey Glaze:
While the chicken bakes, combine honey, sriracha, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until slightly thickened and well blended.
Glaze the Chicken:
Once chicken is cooked, remove from oven and brush generously with the hot honey glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer chicken to a serving platter, drizzle with any remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh parsley and sliced red chili. Serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Baked Hot Honey Chicken

Crispier Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs and bake on a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms.
Even Cooking: Let chicken come to room temperature before baking to ensure uniform cooking.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the sriracha and chili flakes based on your spice tolerance. For milder, use 1 tbsp sriracha.
Make Ahead: Coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking to prep ahead for gatherings.

Variations

Boneless Option: Use chicken tenders or boneless thighs for quicker cooking.
Maple Hot Honey: Swap regular honey for maple syrup for a rich, autumnal flavor.
Asian Twist: Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the glaze and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Serve alongside creamy coleslaw for contrast to the spicy honey glaze.
Make sliders: Slice baked drumsticks off the bone and serve on mini buns with pickles.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Hot honey chicken is part of a growing trend in American cuisine that combines sweet heat with comfort foods. Inspired by Nashville hot chicken and honey-glazed fried traditions, this baked version offers a healthier approach without compromising flavor. The sweet-spicy balance stimulates the palate and creates an unforgettable flavor experience that’s now popular in restaurants and home kitchens alike.