If you’re craving crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken, these Hot Honey Chicken Thighs are a must-try! With the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, this recipe is easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality results right at home. Let’s dive into the details and make this dish a new family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy Skin – Baked at the right temperature for golden, crispy skin.
- Sweet & Spicy Glaze – A mouthwatering honey and hot sauce combo that caramelizes beautifully.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy yet flavorful dish.
- Oven-Baked Goodness – No frying required, just bake and enjoy!
Hot Honey Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp grapeseed oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1 tsp Badia Complete seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- 1 ½ tbsp honey
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin when baking.
2. Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, coat the chicken thighs with grapeseed oil to help the seasonings stick. Then, evenly sprinkle seasoning salt, Badia Complete, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the chicken. Rub the seasoning in to ensure full coverage.
3. Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Bake uncovered for 55 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
4. Make the Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp hot sauce with 1 ½ tbsp honey until well combined.
5. Glaze & Final Bake
After 55 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and brush the hot honey glaze generously over each piece. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the glaze caramelizes beautifully.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken Thighs
- Use a Wire Rack: If you have one, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation for crispier skin.
- Adjust Spice Level: Want it hotter? Add more hot sauce. Prefer it milder? Reduce the hot sauce and add a little brown sugar.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Thighs
This sweet and spicy chicken pairs well with classic Southern sides:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, perfect for balancing the heat.
- Cornbread – A sweet and soft side that complements the flavors.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the sticky glaze.
- Mac & Cheese – A comforting, cheesy addition to the meal.
- Roasted Veggies – A healthy and delicious choice.
Storing & Reheating
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.
These Hot Honey Chicken Thighs bring together bold flavors, crispy texture, and an irresistible glaze in one easy recipe. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out!
