Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
08 - 2 large eggs, beaten
09 - 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

→ Hot Honey Sauce

10 - 1/4 cup honey
11 - 2 tablespoons hot sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
13 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
14 - 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

15 - Fresh chopped parsley
16 - Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 - Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
03 - Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
04 - In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat until butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. If desired, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for tang.
05 - Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce over the top. For more flavor, toss the chicken in the sauce to coat thoroughly.
06 - Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.