Hot Honey Chicken

Name: Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup honey; 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with this Hot Honey Chicken recipe. It's a delightful dish that brings a kick to your dinner table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T20:45:43.911Z

This Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful combination of crispy chicken and a sticky, spicy honey glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
Crispy chicken with a sticky glaze that keeps you coming back for more.
Easy to make, yet impressive enough for guests.

      

The Appeal of Hot Honey Chicken

Hot Honey Chicken is more than just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes the taste buds. The combination of crispy chicken and a sweet yet spicy glaze creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. This dish can easily become a staple in your dinner rotation, offering a delightful twist that keeps things fresh and interesting.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, Hot Honey Chicken is sure to impress. Its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a standout dish. Plus, it's versatile enough to pair with various sides, from creamy coleslaw to fluffy rice, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Chicken

Frying chicken can be a bit daunting, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this will help create that coveted golden-brown crust. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.

Another essential tip is to avoid overcrowding the pan. Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary, allowing each piece enough space to cook evenly. Remember to let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack rather than paper towels to maintain its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Glaze

1/2 cup honey
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Coating

In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine honey, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce. Heat over low until warm and mixed well.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried chicken and serve immediately.

Serve your hot honey chicken with your favorite sides!

Variations to Try

While the classic Hot Honey Chicken recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can explore. For those who prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the glaze. Alternatively, add more for an extra kick! You can also experiment with different types of honey, such as wildflower or clover, to find a taste that suits your palate.

For a healthier twist, consider baking the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the marinated chicken thighs in the flour mixture and place them on a baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method still yields deliciously crispy results.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how tasty this dish is!), storing them properly is key to maintaining the flavor and texture. Store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some of its crispiness.

The hot honey glaze can also be stored in a sealed container in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before drizzling it over your leftovers. This way, you can enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and spicy all over again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

→ How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes in the glaze.

→ Can I make the hot honey glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it before serving.

→ What can I serve with hot honey chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.