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Hot Honey Chicken Thighs Recipe (Spicy Honey Chicken) Recipe

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4 from 33 reviews

This Hot Honey Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk, coated in a flavorful seasoned panko breading, and baked to crispy perfection. The hot honey drizzle adds a sweet and spicy kick, making it an irresistible dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk (can be light)
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt (divided)
  • Spray oil (for baking sheet and spraying chicken)

Breading

  • 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Hot Honey Sauce

  • ½ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon chili flakes
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Add the buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of sea salt, mixing thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  2. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and generously spray with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Mix breading: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, whole wheat flour, paprika, Italian seasoning, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
  4. Bread chicken: Working with one chicken thigh at a time, dip it into the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and thorough coating. Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all chicken thighs.
  5. Bake chicken: Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken thighs with oil. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, golden brown, and crispy on the outside.
  6. Make hot honey: While the chicken bakes, combine the honey, chili flakes, and hot sauce in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat until the honey is bubbly and infused with the chili flavors. Remove from heat and let infuse for 5 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove chili flakes for a smooth drizzle.
  7. Serve: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately drizzle with the hot honey sauce. Serve warm for a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes or overnight for extra tenderness and flavor.
  • Use light buttermilk as a low-fat option if desired.
  • Spray oil helps achieve maximum crispiness without deep frying.
  • Adjust chili flakes and hot sauce amounts to control the heat level in the hot honey.
  • Serve with a side of greens or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/hot-honey-chicken-thighs-recipe-spicy-honey-chicken-recipe/