Wowzers, after seeing this recipe, I would never prepare chicken any other way again!

Baked Hot Honey Chicken is one of those heartwarming dishes that just feels like a hug on a plate. This sweet and spicy meal is a nod to the Southern charm of combining honey with a kick of heat, creating a flavor that'll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests without the fuss, this dish brings a little zest to your traditional chicken dinner. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet it possesses that special touch for the weekends, too.

This mouthwatering chicken goes wonderfully with a range of sides. I like to pair it with buttery cornbread to sop up any extra honey sauce and a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness. For heartier fare, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a scoop of fluffy rice to complement that lovely sauce. Roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a pleasant crunch and a bit of char that works beautifully with the dish's flavors.

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup honey
- 4 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is getting nice and toasty, line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup later on.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste and place them in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, paprika, and chili powder if you're using it. Let those flavors get to know each other until they're best friends.

4. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is lovingly coated.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. If you have an instant-read thermometer, you’re aiming for 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Once the chicken is done, switch the oven to broil and let the top get a little crispy for about 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it, honey burns are no joke.

7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This is when the chicken says "Thank you" for the lovely bath you gave it.

8. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, serve, and watch the smiles around your table grow.

Variations & Tips:

- For our little picky eaters, you might want to set aside a piece of chicken without the hot sauce and add a dash of honey and a sprinkle of garlic powder instead.
- Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts if that's what's on hand or what your family prefers.
- Adjust the heat to suit your family's taste. Go milder with less hot sauce or elevate the fire for those who like it punchy.
- This recipe can also be transformed into a glaze for wings. A hit for game day gatherings or family movie nights!
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for a couple of days and can be gently reheated in the oven.

With each bite of this Baked Hot Honey Chicken, I hope your family feels the love and care that went into preparing it. Enjoy the blend of flavors and warm smiles all around your dinner table!