Introduction
Looking for a dish that combines crispy texture with a sweet and spicy kick? This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is just what you need. With juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a crunchy breadcrumb mixture and drizzled with hot honey, it’s a delightful comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking spray
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken drumsticks in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In another bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, shaking off excess, and coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, drizzle hot honey over the chicken and return to the oven.
- Once done, let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For extra spiciness, increase the cayenne pepper.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Feel free to refrigerate marinated chicken overnight for even better flavor.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that perfect crunch, the combination of panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch is key. Panko adds an airy crispness, while cornstarch enhances the coating’s adherence to the chicken, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
FAQ
- Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, you can use thighs or breasts, but cooking times may vary.
- Is hot honey easy to make? Absolutely! Just mix honey with a pinch of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? You can marinate the chicken the night before for added flavor.
Conclusion
This Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors and textures. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy every spicy, sweet bite!