Description
This Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts recipe features tender organic chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and olive oil, then baked to perfection and slathered with a rich, spicy hot honey sauce made from butter, garlic, honey, and a mix of smoky and fiery seasonings. The combination delivers a sweet heat with a savory depth, perfect for a comforting yet exciting dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs organic chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Hot Honey Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup organic raw honey
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Pinch of sea salt
Garnish
- Sesame seeds (quantity to taste)
- Sliced green onions (quantity to taste)
Instructions
- Prep and Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator to develop deep flavors. Before cooking, bring the chicken to room temperature by letting it sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Make Slit-like Cuts: Using a sharp knife, make small slit-like cuts across the top of each chicken breast. These cuts allow the hot honey sauce to penetrate the meat more effectively, maximizing flavor absorption during baking.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth, slightly thickened, and evenly blended. Remove the sauce from heat.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the sheet in a single layer. Spoon half of the prepared hot honey sauce evenly over each chicken breast. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a golden brown color and is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and spoon the remaining hot honey sauce over the top of each breast. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if you want juicier meat, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the hot honey sauce a little longer before baking.
