Description
Craving that crispy, sweet-heat combo that screams comfort food? This Hot Honey Chicken recipe delivers an irresistible crunch and a bold, sticky drizzle of spicy honey that takes things to the next level. Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick dinner idea, an easy recipe for gatherings, or a satisfying twist on classic fried chicken, this dish checks every box. It’s oven-baked (or air-fried), packed with flavor, and perfect for food lovers looking for bold flavor and fun food ideas. Say goodbye to boring chicken and hello to your new favorite dinner recipe!
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
2 cups cornflakes or crispy rice cereal (crushed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup honey
1 tbsp hot sauce
1 tsp chili flakes
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Pickle slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Let rest for 10–15 minutes.
2. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, one with crushed cereal.
3. Dredge chicken in flour, then egg mixture, then press into crushed cereal. Set aside on a wire rack.
4. Bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Meanwhile, simmer honey, hot sauce, chili flakes, and vinegar for 2–3 minutes. Do not boil.
6. Once chicken is done, drizzle hot honey over each piece. Garnish with parsley and serve with pickles.
Notes
Do not drizzle the hot honey until the chicken is cooked and ready to serve for maximum crispness.
For extra tender chicken, marinate in buttermilk for a few hours before breading.
Crush the cereal just enough for texture — avoid turning it into powder.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: hot honey chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, spicy chicken, comfort food, food ideas