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Baked Panko Crusted Chicken with Honey Drizzle Recipe

4.6 from 130 reviews

This Baked Panko Crusted Chicken with Honey Drizzle is a crispy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast cutlets coated in a seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a sweet and mildly spicy honey drizzle. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 2 lbs chicken breast cutlets (about 6 thin pieces)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs (unseasoned)
  • 1 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder

Honey Drizzle

  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the panko mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and onion powder. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Set this mixture aside.
  2. Season and coat the chicken: Lightly season both sides of each chicken breast cutlet with salt and pepper. Arrange them flat on a large baking sheet. Spread a very thin layer of mayonnaise on the top of each chicken piece to help the crumbs adhere.
  3. Apply the panko crust: Turn each chicken breast so the mayonnaise side touches the panko mixture, pressing gently to coat well. Place the coated side up back on the baking sheet. Spoon any remaining crumbs over the chicken breasts and gently pat to secure the topping.
  4. Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the chicken for 10 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cutlets.
  5. Prepare honey drizzle and serve: While the chicken is baking, mix the honey with red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Once the chicken is out of the oven, drizzle the honey mixture evenly over each piece. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, sweet, and spicy chicken!

Notes

  • For a spicier drizzle, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
  • Ensure chicken cutlets are evenly thin for uniform cooking.
  • You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking.
  • Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: baked chicken, panko crusted chicken, honey drizzle chicken, crispy chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner