Hot Honey Chicken is a mouthwatering combination of sweet and spicy flavors that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish features crispy, tender chicken coated in a sticky, spicy honey glaze that adds the perfect kick. The contrast of crispy chicken with the sweet and spicy sauce makes this a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Chicken
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Hot Honey Glaze
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tbsp hot sauce (such as sriracha or cayenne hot sauce)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Working in batches, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Hot Honey Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the fried chicken in a large bowl and drizzle the hot honey glaze over the top. Toss to coat all the pieces evenly.
Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Chicken
- Marinate for Extra Tenderness: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. Try to marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
- Use a Thermometer: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F, which will help achieve the perfect crispy exterior.
- Work in Batches: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
Recipe Variations
- Oven-Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
- Spicy Garlic Honey: Add 1 clove of minced garlic to the hot honey glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
- Honey BBQ Chicken: Substitute half of the hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Chicken breasts work well for this recipe. Just make sure to cut them into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover hot honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep it crispy.
Q: Can I make this recipe less spicy?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference, or use a milder hot sauce to reduce the heat.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve the hot honey chicken over steamed rice to balance out the sweet and spicy flavors.
- With Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- As a Sandwich: Serve the hot honey chicken on a toasted bun with coleslaw for a delicious sandwich.
Hot Honey Chicken is a flavorful, crispy dish that brings together the perfect blend of sweet and heat. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little spice in their meal. Whether you fry it up for a weekend treat or bake it for a lighter weeknight option, this recipe is versatile and absolutely delicious. Give it a try, and enjoy every sticky, spicy bite!