Season the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In another bowl, whisk the egg and water. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then egg, then flour again for a double coat. Heat the oil and fry chicken until golden and crisp, about 8–10 minutes. Let it drain on paper towels to stay crunchy.
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture looks crumbly. Add buttermilk and gently mix until dough forms. Fold the dough a few times to create layers, roll it out, and cut into biscuits. Bake for 15–17 minutes and brush tops with melted butter.
Warm the honey in a small saucepan with red pepper flakes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar. Let it cool slightly so it thickens.
Split warm biscuits in half. Add a piece of crispy chicken in the center. Drizzle generously with hot honey. Add pickles if you like a tangy contrast. Serve immediately for the best texture.