Spicy Hot Honey Chicken in the Air Fryer

These crunchy, juicy, golden brown chicken breasts topped with spicy honey are nostalgic and new all at the same time!

If you’re anything like me, it’s easy to fall into a weeknight recipe rut. After a long day, pulling together a creative dinner can sometimes feel like a burden, so we tend to stick to recipes that we know are quick and easy, even if we’re a little bored with them. Well, that’s where my Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken come in to the rescue, the answer to your weeknight dinner woes!

Ready in just eight minutes and with the perfect balance of sweet and heat, this hot honey chicken recipe packs a punch and a bit of crunch, and is sure to become your new favorite weeknight meal for the whole family.

You can watch a step-by-step video of this recipe on The Savvy Spoon Instagram here.

Why I love this recipe (+ why you’ll love it too!)

I first made this recipe when I was craving a spicy combo of crispy chicken with just a touch of sweetness. Hot honey sauce brings such a delicious balance of flavors—it’s spicy but not overpowering and adds a perfect crunch when paired with panko breadcrumbs. Plus, air frying means you’re skipping the extra fats that come with deep-frying chicken pieces.

Here’s why this recipe has personally earned a permanent spot in my rotation:

• Quick to Whip Up: Ready in under 20 minutes.
• Healthier Option: The air fryer gives a crunchy coating without needing a large skillet full of hot oil.
• Fam Friendly! This spicy honey chicken is loved by everyone, from spice enthusiasts to picky eaters. You can, of course, adjust the spice level for milder flavors.

Ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts butterflied in half
• kosher salt and pepper
• 2 eggs whisked
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• avocado oil cooking spray
• spicy honey (like @mike’s hot honey)

Here’s how you’ll make my Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken:

1. Heat the oven. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees.
2. Season your chicken. Season butterflied chicken with kosher salt and pepper.
3. Set up station. Make a dredging station: In one bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine panko and seasonings. Line a sheet pan with foil to place the chicken on.
4. Dredge chicken. Dip each chicken breast into the egg first, then into panko + seasoning mix. Place onto a sheet pan.
5. Place in fryer. Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray, then add in chicken breasts in one layer, working in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the chicken breasts with cooking spray and cook 4 minutes each side.
6. Drizzle! Remove from air fryer, drizzle crunchy chicken with hot honey, and enjoy!

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results when reheating:

• Air fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes and avoid the microwave—it can make the crispy coating soggy.

What to serve with Spicy Hot Honey Chicken

This spicy honey chicken pairs beautifully with just about anything. Here are a few of my favorite sides to turn it into a delicious chicken dinner:

• Baked Mac and Cheese—creamy and cheesy, or try my lighter Roasted Cauliflower Vegan Mac + Cheese for a healthier version.
• Green Salad – A fresh salad balances the heat. My Tomato, Corn & Cucumber Summer Salad is perfect—light and full of flavor.
• Roasted Veggies – Green onions, broccoli, or asparagus work great, or try my Baked Feta Sweet Potatoes for something special.

Savvy tips for perfect hot honey chicken!

• Use a wire rack: After air frying, let your chicken rest on a wire rack to keep the crispy coating intact.
• Add corn flakes: For extra crunch, add crushed cornflakes to your panko breadcrumb mixture.
• Work in batches: Air fry in a single layer for even cooking.
• Adjust spice levels: For milder flavors, reduce the cayenne pepper or chili powder.

More chicken recipes!

• Hummus Crusted Chicken + Couscous Tabbouleh
• Marry Me Creamy Chicken Pasta
• How To Make The Best Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs
• Easy Greek Chicken Pitas (No Cooking Required!)

Can I bake the chicken instead of using the air fryer?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Coat the chicken with panko as usual, then place it on a baking sheet (use a wire rack if you have one). Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer. Drizzle with hot honey before serving!

Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter flavor without the heat, regular honey will work. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the honey for a little kick!

This hot chicken with spicy honey is the perfect way to spice up your weeknight routine. With its crispy texture and sweet heat, this hot honey recipe is sure to become your new favorite go-to for a delicious weeknight dinner. Quick, easy, and full of flavor—it’s a meal the whole family will love!

Happy cooking! 🍯

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