Crispy Chicken Skin Cracklings with Hot Honey

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Crispy Chicken Skin Cracklings with Hot Honey are savory, golden bites of roasted chicken skin — crisp like chips and wildly flavorful. When drizzled with sweet-spicy hot honey, they become an irresistible snack or gourmet garnish. A brilliant way to reduce waste and elevate your next appetizer spread!

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Yields4 Servings
Prep Time15 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time45 mins
~20 cracklings
For the Chicken Skin Cracklings
 Skin from 4–6 chicken thighs or breasts (about 8–10 oz)
 Salt and freshly ground black pepper
 ½ tsp smoked paprika or garlic powder (optional)
 Parchment paper or a silicone mat
For the Hot Honey
 ¼ cup honey
 2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
 Optional: 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for tang)
 Pinch of salt
Preheat Oven
1
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Prep the Chicken Skins
2
  1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken skins (leave a little for crispness).

  2. Stretch and flatten skins on the baking sheet, smoothing out any folds.

  3. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and optional spices.

  4. Place a second sheet of parchment over the skins and top with another baking sheet to keep them flat while baking.

Roast the Skins
3
  1. Bake for 30–40 minutes, flipping once at the 25-minute mark.

  2. Once golden and crisp, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.

Make the Hot Honey
4
  1. While skins are baking, gently heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat.

  2. Add red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt.

  3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat and let steep.

  4. Add vinegar or lemon juice (optional) for a touch of acidity.

  5. Strain if desired for a smoother finish, or leave flakes in for extra heat.

Serve
5
  • Arrange cracklings on a platter or small board.

  • Drizzle with warm hot honey just before serving.

  • Garnish with microgreens, chopped chives, or flaky salt if desired.

Serving Suggestions
6
  • Serve as a standalone snack, cocktail garnish, or on top of:

    • Deviled eggs

    • Soups (like creamy corn or butternut squash)

    • Salads (especially arugula or kale with citrus)

  • Pair with:

    • Sparkling wine, lager, or bourbon-based cocktails

    • Dips like ranch, blue cheese, or chipotle aioli

Variations
7
  • Asian-style: Drizzle with gochujang honey or soy glaze.

  • Herby: Add thyme, rosemary, or za'atar before roasting.

  • Sweet-savory: Serve over a corn muffin with a dollop of whipped goat cheese.

Ingredients

~20 cracklings
For the Chicken Skin Cracklings
 Skin from 4–6 chicken thighs or breasts (about 8–10 oz)
 Salt and freshly ground black pepper
 ½ tsp smoked paprika or garlic powder (optional)
 Parchment paper or a silicone mat
For the Hot Honey
 ¼ cup honey
 2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
 Optional: 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for tang)
 Pinch of salt
Crispy Chicken Skin Cracklings with Hot Honey
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