Hot Honey Fried Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

Hot Honey Fried Chicken: Prepare to experience fried chicken like never before! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden-brown perfection, only to be met with a fiery kick of chili-infused honey. It’s a sweet and spicy symphony that will leave you craving more. This isn’t just fried chicken; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of hot honey are debated, its popularity has exploded in recent years, gracing everything from pizzas to biscuits. The combination of sweet honey and fiery chili peppers is a modern twist on a classic flavor profile, echoing the age-old love affair between sweet and spicy found in cuisines worldwide. Think of it as a sophisticated upgrade to your favorite comfort food.

People adore Hot Honey Fried Chicken for its irresistible combination of textures and tastes. The satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried chicken gives way to juicy, tender meat, all coated in that addictive sweet and spicy glaze. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and excitement, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to customize the heat level to your liking. Get ready to elevate your fried chicken game!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• For the Dredge:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• For the Hot Honey:
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• For Frying:
• 4-6 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Marinating the Chicken

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to marinate the chicken. This is crucial for juicy, flavorful fried chicken. Don’t skip this step!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. This will help tenderize the chicken and allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor will be! I usually aim for at least 4 hours.

Preparing the Dredge

While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the dredge. This is what gives our fried chicken that crispy, golden-brown crust.

1. In a large, shallow dish (like a baking dish or a large plate), whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.
2. The cornstarch helps create a lighter, crispier crust, while the baking powder adds a little lift. The cayenne pepper is optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra kick!
3. Make sure everything is well combined. You don’t want any pockets of spices.

Making the Hot Honey

Now, let’s whip up the star of the show: the hot honey! This sweet and spicy glaze is what takes this fried chicken to the next level.

1. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, chili flakes, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the honey is smooth and the spices are well incorporated. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Be careful not to boil the honey, as it can burn easily. We just want to warm it through and infuse it with the spices.
4. Once the hot honey is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside. It will thicken slightly as it cools.

Frying the Chicken

Alright, it’s time to fry! This is where the magic happens. Make sure you have everything set up and ready to go before you start.

1. Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. You want the oil to be at least 3 inches deep.
2. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for crispy, evenly cooked chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s cooked through. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will be greasy.
3. While the oil is heating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
4. Working in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot!), dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Press the flour into the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
5. Carefully lower the dredged chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
6. Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.
7. Repeat the dredging and frying process with the remaining chicken. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature between batches. You may need to adjust the heat as you go.

Coating with Hot Honey and Serving

Almost there! Now for the final touch: coating the crispy fried chicken with that delicious hot honey.

1. While the chicken is still hot, brush it generously with the hot honey. You can also drizzle it over the chicken if you prefer.
2. Make sure every piece is coated in that sweet and spicy goodness!
3. Serve immediately. Hot Honey Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

This Hot Honey Fried Chicken is amazing on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

• Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or cornbread.
• Make it into a sandwich with pickles and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
• Serve it over waffles for a sweet and savory brunch.
• Pair it with a refreshing salad to balance out the richness.

Tips and Tricks:

• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Frying in batches ensures that the oil temperature remains consistent and the chicken cooks evenly.
• Use a thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is essential for maintaining the correct oil temperature. A meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
• Double dredge for extra crispiness: For an even crispier crust, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and then dredge it in the flour mixture again.
• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the dredge and chili flakes in the hot honey to your preference.
• Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken and prepare the hot honey ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the chicken crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the chicken soggy.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Hot Honey Fried Chicken recipe as much as I do! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Hot Honey Fried Chicken recipe isn’t just another fried chicken dish; it’s an experience. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken infused with the perfect balance of sweet heat. Trust me, the combination of the crunchy coating, the savory chicken, and that incredible hot honey drizzle is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). But why is this a must-try? Beyond the incredible flavor profile, it’s surprisingly easy to make. We’ve broken down each step to ensure even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Plus, the hot honey element elevates this classic comfort food to something truly special. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and who doesn’t love a recipe that delivers on both taste and ease? Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations. While this Hot Honey Fried Chicken is fantastic on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic choices like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or crispy french fries are always a hit. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or some grilled corn on the cob. And don’t forget the pickles! A few dill pickle slices add a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken. Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you might want to try: * Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich: Place a piece of the fried chicken on a toasted brioche bun with some coleslaw and pickles for an unforgettable sandwich. * Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles: A sweet and savory classic! Drizzle extra hot honey over the chicken and waffles for an extra kick. * Hot Honey Chicken Salad: Dice the fried chicken and toss it with your favorite salad ingredients for a unique and flavorful salad. * Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the hot honey. For those who like it extra spicy, add a pinch of ghost pepper flakes! * Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding different herbs to the flour mixture. Thyme, rosemary, or oregano would all complement the chicken beautifully. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize this recipe to your own taste preferences. I truly believe this Hot Honey Fried Chicken will become a new favorite in your household. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress, and it’s so much fun to make. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience fried chicken like never before. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what you thought of the flavor, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking! Print