### Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken: A Deliciously Addictive Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that’s both satisfying and flavorful, Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken stands out as a crowd-pleaser. This dish combines the irresistible crunch of baked chicken with a rich, sweet, and savory honey garlic glaze, creating a meal that’s as delectable as it is easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

#### What Makes Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Special?

Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful twist on traditional fried chicken. By baking rather than frying, you achieve a crispy exterior without the extra oil, making this version a bit lighter but equally delicious. The honey garlic sauce adds a glossy, sweet-savory finish that complements the crispy coating perfectly. It’s a balanced dish that delivers on both texture and taste, making it a versatile option for a variety of occasions.

#### Ingredients

**For the Chicken*

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 2 large eggs

- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)

- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

**For the Honey Garlic Sauce*

- 1/2 cup honey

- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium for a lighter option)

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (optional for added depth)

- 1 tablespoon cornstarch

- 2 tablespoons water

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)

#### How to Make Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. You can also use thighs for a more tender result.

**Step 2: Bread the Chicken**

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. In another bowl, beat the eggs.

3. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

5. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.

**Step 3: Bake the Chicken**

1. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.

**Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce**

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the saucepan and stir well.

3. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes glossy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil if using.

**Step 5: Toss and Serve**

1. Once the chicken is baked and crispy, transfer it to a large bowl.

2. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.

3. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

#### Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

**1. **Crispy Texture* Baking with panko breadcrumbs gives the chicken a satisfying crunch without the need for frying. This method also makes it a healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken.

**2. **Sweet and Savory Sauce* The honey garlic sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and umami, creating a rich glaze that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

**3. **Versatile Dish* This chicken can be served with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also works well as a main dish for casual family dinners or more formal gatherings.

**4. **Easy to Prepare* With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

**5. **Make Ahead* The chicken can be breaded and baked in advance, and the honey garlic sauce can be prepared ahead of time. Simply reheat the sauce and toss with the chicken before serving.

#### Tips for Success

**1. **Use Panko Breadcrumbs* Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken a crispier texture.

**2. **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan* Make sure there is space between the chicken pieces on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy.

**3. **Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness* Customize the honey garlic sauce to your taste by adjusting the amount of honey or soy sauce. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

**4. **Rest the Chicken* Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before tossing it in the sauce. This helps maintain its crispiness.

**5. **Storage and Reheating* Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven to maintain its crispiness.

#### Conclusion

Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delectable dish that combines the best of both worlds: a crispy, golden exterior with a sweet and savory glaze. Its balanced flavors and satisfying texture make it a versatile option for any meal, from a cozy dinner at home to a special gathering with loved ones. By using simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the mouthwatering results of this delightful recipe!

#easyrecipe