There’s something undeniably satisfying about the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Add a crispy coating and a sticky glaze, and you have a dish that’s destined to become a household favorite. This Spicy Honey-Glazed Crispy Baked Chicken checks all those boxes. I’ll never forget the first time I made it for a family gathering. As the sweet and spicy aroma filled the air, my cousin, the self-proclaimed spice aficionado, couldn’t resist sneaking a taste. His reaction—eyes wide and a huge grin—confirmed that this recipe was a winner. Since then, it’s been a staple at our family dinners, consistently leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Honey Baked Chicken
This recipe is more than just a crowd-pleaser; it’s practical, customizable, and bursting with flavor. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your rotation:
Healthier Option: By baking instead of frying, you get a crispy coating without the added oil.
Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The hot honey glaze perfectly balances heat and sweetness, making it a hit with all palates.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Versatile: Adjust the spice level, switch up the coating, or pair it with your favorite sides for endless variations.
Preparation Time and Serving Size
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: Serves 4
Ingredients You’ll Need for Spicy Honey Baked Chicken
For the Chicken
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces
All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
Eggs: 2, beaten
Cornflakes Cereal: 2 cups, crushed
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Cooking Spray or Vegetable Oil: For greasing
For the Hot Honey Glaze
Honey: ¼ cup
Hot Sauce: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
Melted Butter: 1 tablespoon
Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or vegetable oil. This setup ensures even cooking and a crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Fill with all-purpose flour.
- Dish 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Dish 3: Mix crushed cornflakes with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the cornflake mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken bakes, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
Step 6: Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Immediately brush the hot honey glaze generously over each piece, ensuring the coating absorbs the sweet and spicy goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
Achieve Maximum Crunch: Crush the cornflakes finely but not into a powder. This creates the perfect crunchy texture.
Customize the Spice Level: For a milder glaze, reduce the hot sauce. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of sriracha.
Use a Wire Rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate, ensuring even crispiness all around.
Prepare Ahead: Bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes meal prep a breeze.
Recipe Variations
Switch the Coating: Try panko breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or even crushed potato chips for a fun twist.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Explore Different Glazes: Swap the hot honey glaze for a barbecue glaze, teriyaki sauce, or lemon pepper drizzle.
Add a Side of Dipping Sauce: Pair with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra hot honey glaze for dipping.
Serving Suggestions of Spicy Honey Baked Chicken
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal:
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw balances the heat of the glaze with a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a healthy side.
Rice or Quinoa: A bed of rice or quinoa absorbs the extra glaze, adding a hearty base to the meal.
Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 450
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 40g
Conclusion: Sweet, Spicy, and Simply Irresistible
This Spicy Honey-Glazed Crispy Baked Chicken is a true showstopper. The golden, crunchy coating combined with the sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy your cravings, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
I’d love to hear how your chicken turns out! Did you tweak the glaze to make it spicier, or try a creative side dish pairing? Share your creations by tagging me on social media—I can’t wait to see how you’ve made this recipe your own.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this crispy, sweet, and spicy masterpiece!
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Spicy Honey-Glazed Crispy Baked Chicken: A Sweet and Spicy Sensation
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Spicy Honey-Glazed Crispy Baked Chicken combines a perfectly crispy, golden coating with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. Baked, not fried, this recipe is a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a flavorful meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Cornflakes Cereal: 2 cups, crushed
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Cooking Spray or Vegetable Oil: For greasing
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- Honey: ¼ cup
- Hot Sauce: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Melted Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a wire rack on a baking sheet.
- Prepare Breading Station: Place flour, beaten eggs, and cornflakes mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in separate shallow dishes.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in the cornflake mixture.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange chicken on the wire rack and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make Glaze: Whisk honey, hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
- Glaze Chicken: Brush the glaze generously over the baked chicken.
- Serve: Let rest for a few minutes and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your spice level.
- Crush cornflakes finely for a crispier texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American