If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy, then this Crispy Hot Honey Chicken is about to become your new favorite. It’s a delightful concoction of tender chicken breast breaded and fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with a tantalizing hot honey that strikes just the right balance of heat and sweetness. This recipe is sure to become a staple on your weeknight menu!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor.
- Quick Meal: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice to your liking, so it’s perfectly tailored to your taste.
- Versatile Dish: Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated! With a handful of essential ingredients, this Crispy Hot Honey Chicken delivers on flavor with minimal effort. Each component has its own important role, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: The secret to that satisfying crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory depth to the breading.
- Eggs: Helps the breading adhere perfectly to the chicken.
- Chicken Breast: The heart of the dish, tender and juicy.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Ensures a crispy crust while adding flavor.
- Honey: The base of the hot honey sauce, sweet and sticky.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Gives the honey its irresistible heat.
Variations
A great part of this Crispy Hot Honey Chicken recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re looking to switch up the flavors, cater to dietary needs, or simply use what you have on hand, these variations offer something for everyone.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out panko for a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to up the heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Increase the parmesan amount for a cheesier crust.
How to Make Crispy Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Breading and Egg Mixture
Start by combining the panko bread crumbs, salt, and grated parmesan in a shallow dish. In another dish, whisk the eggs until they are well-beaten. This setup will make your breading process a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare and Bread the Chicken
Cut each chicken breast into thin pieces and pound them gently for even thickness. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg, then press into the panko mixture, ensuring a solid, even coating. For extra crunch, repeat for a double breading.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat your olive oil over medium heat, and cook the chicken pieces in batches without overcrowding the pan. This will ensure they turn golden brown and crispy. Each side will need about two minutes.
Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While the chicken cooks, gently heat the honey with red pepper flakes in a small saucepan until it’s nice and warm. Drizzle this over the chicken or serve as a dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Making Crispy Hot Honey Chicken
- Perfect Temperature: Keep your stovetop at medium heat to avoid burning the breading.
- Breading Technique: Press the panko firmly into the chicken to ensure it sticks and crisps up beautifully.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the hot honey sauce in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Oil Quality: Use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor and a non-greasy finish.
How to Serve Crispy Hot Honey Chicken
Garnishes
Top your Crispy Hot Honey Chicken with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chives for a pop of color and a touch of fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon can also add a delightful zestiness that complements the honey perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables to balance out the savory-sweet flavors. Roasted potatoes or homemade fries make a satisfying addition for a more hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve your Crispy Hot Honey Chicken on a platter topped with the hot honey drizzle. Arrange the chicken pieces with a scattering of colorful garnishes. Consider serving individual portions on dinner plates with the honey sauce artfully pooled underneath.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the hot honey separate until you’re ready to serve again, to maintain that delicious texture.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the chicken to fully cool before placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. This way, you can enjoy Crispy Hot Honey Chicken up to 2 months later with minimal fuss.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until heated through. This ensures the coating stays crispy, avoiding the sogginess that can come with microwaving.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result and hold up well with this cooking method. Just adjust the cook time as needed.
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Is there a non-spicy alternative for the hot honey?
You can substitute the red pepper flakes with a touch of cinnamon or leave them out entirely for a sweeter version.
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What’s the best way to ensure a crispy crust?
Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and don’t overcrowd the pan. A single, steady batch frying will yield the crispiest results.
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Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes till golden brown. You might not get the same level of crispiness as frying, but it will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just treating yourself to something special, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let the magic of that crispy, sweet, and spicy combination amaze you!
Print
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken is a deliciously crunchy and flavorful dish featuring pan-fried chicken cutlets coated in panko breadcrumbs and topped with a spicy, sweet hot honey glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying appetizer, this recipe combines crispy texture with a sticky, spicy-sweet sauce that elevates the classic fried chicken to new heights.
Ingredients
For the Breading
- 3 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast (about 2-3 breasts)
- 2+ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
For the Hot Honey
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 tablespoon red pepper flakes
For the Egg Wash
- 6 eggs
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a shallow square baking dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, salt, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half to make thinner cutlets, then halve each piece lengthwise to have four thin pieces. Cover with parchment or wax paper and pound gently with a meat tenderizer to an even thinness.
- Heat the Pan: Bring a large sauté pan to just below medium heat (about 4 out of 10). Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and allow it to warm for 1 minute.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg wash, then into the panko mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the breading. Optional: double coat by dipping back into the egg and panko for a thicker crust.
- Cook the Chicken: Working in batches, place the breaded chicken in the hot sauté pan. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden brown on the bottom, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes. Add more olive oil as needed to maintain a thin layer in the pan and avoid overcrowding.
- Prepare the Hot Honey: While the chicken cooks, combine honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Place over low heat and stir occasionally to warm through until ready to serve.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined rack to drain excess oil. Drizzle the hot honey over the chicken or serve on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately for maximum crispiness.
Notes
- Stovetop Temperature: Aim for a temperature that is roughly 4 on a scale of 1-10 to prevent burning the breading and smoking oil.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and texture. Grate from a block for best results.
- Breading Technique: For a thicker crust, double bread the chicken by dipping it twice in the egg and panko mixture.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Enhances flavor; Spanish extra virgin olive oil from brands like Trader Joe’s or Costco is recommended.
- Maintaining Crispy Texture: Place cooked chicken on a wire rack over paper towels to keep it crispy by allowing air circulation and excess oil drainage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet (about 150g)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
