Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts 

Step 1

In a large bowl, add your freshly cleaned + rinsed chicken along with olive oil + seasonings: salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, + red pepper flakes, mixing everything together until chicken is fully coated.

Step 2

Placing seasoned chicken breasts unto a clean cutting board, cut little "slit-like" cuts atop each breast, about 1-inch or so apart. Repeat until all chicken breasts are cut with this design.

Step 3

NOTE: Best when marinated for a while! To do so: Add coated chicken to a securely sealed ziplock bag and place in the refrigerator for 3 hours (minimum). Best if marinaded overnight. When ready to use, let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

Step 4

In a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and let it melt. Add in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Next, add the honey, cayenne peppers, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt, stirring everything together until sauce becomes smooth and thick. Remove from heat.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You can also make these in a skillet, if desired.

Step 6

Line seasoned chicken breast (side by side) unto prepared baking sheet (or skillet), leaving a bit of room in between each one. Spoon half the amount of hot honey sauce unto each chicken breast. Save remaining sauce for later!

Step 7

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside.

Step 8

Remove from oven and let them cool slightly. Spoon on remaining hot honey sauce and serve with your favorite side of salad, pasta, basmati rice, brown rice, etc.

Step 9

Bon Appetit!