This Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts recipe brings the perfect mix of sweet and spicy! Juicy chicken is baked to golden perfection and drizzled with delicious honey that has a little kick.
I love how easy this dish is to make! Just pop it in the oven, and while it’s cooking, you can relax. Serve it with some veggies, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want something different, try thighs for richer flavor or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Hot Honey: This adds a sweet and spicy kick. You can make your own with regular honey and a bit of hot sauce, or use sriracha for a different type of heat.
Olive Oil: It’s great for marinades. You can switch it out with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, or use melted butter for a rich flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add brightness. If you don’t have them, dried herbs like thyme or oregano work too, though fresh is always best!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Marinating is key to juicy chicken. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Try to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to a few hours) offers even better results. Here’s how:
- Mix the marinade components well.
- Coat the chicken evenly in the mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors soak in. Just make sure it’s not more than a few hours to avoid mushiness.
Don’t forget to let the chicken rest after baking! This helps it retain juices when you cut into it.
How to Make Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with a dash of hot sauce)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. The baking time is around 25 to 30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour overall to have delicious hot honey baked chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking dish and grease it lightly with a little olive oil. This will help the chicken not to stick!
2. Making the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the hot honey, olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together really well until it’s nicely mixed and looks like a smooth marinade.
3. Marinating the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. Now pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat each piece really well. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or if you have time, pop it in the fridge for a few hours to soak up all those yummy flavors.
4. Baking the Chicken:
Once your chicken has marinated, put the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s cooked through and perfectly juicy!
5. Broiling for Extra Flavor:
If you want to add a beautiful caramelized touch, turn on the broiler during the last 5 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning—this step will really enhance the flavor!
6. Finishing Touches:
After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Drizzle any extra juices from the baking dish over the chicken for added flavor.
7. Serving:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs over the top, and your hot honey baked chicken breasts are ready to serve. Enjoy this sweet and spicy dish!
Can I Use Regular Honey Instead of Hot Honey?
Absolutely! If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a splash of hot sauce to create your own version. Start with a tablespoon of hot sauce and adjust to your taste for the desired heat level!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight works great! Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply, giving you an even tastier chicken.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-friendly container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Pieces Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just adjust the cooking time to about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
