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hot honey chicken recipe
Ben Carraoli

Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

The Hot Honey Chicken recipe is one of those dishes that perfectly balances two essential flavors—spicy and sweet. It’s a unique twist on classic fried chicken, where the crunchy, golden coating is complemented by the fiery heat of hot sauce and the sweetness of honey.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless – Chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts, making them a great choice for a crispy, juicy outcome.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is used for dredging the chicken to give it a crispy outer layer when fried.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds a nice savory depth to the chicken's flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – For color and a mild smokiness in the breading.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the other flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and sharpness to the breading.
  • 2 large eggs – These help bind the flour to the chicken creating a thicker, crispier coating.
  • 1 cup buttermilk – Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while also adding a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the honey later.
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce your choice – Provides the heat to balance the sweet honey in the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup honey – This is the sweet element of the sauce complementing the hot sauce perfectly.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps blend the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – For a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the honey and butter giving balance to the sauce.

Method
 

  1. Start by trimming the chicken thighs if needed, ensuring they're all roughly the same size for even cooking. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to marinate, which will tenderize the meat and help the breading stick better.
  2. In another large bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. After marinating, remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off, and then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press down gently to ensure the flour sticks evenly to the chicken. Repeat for all the chicken pieces.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1/2 inch of oil to the pan. When the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Once fried, remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  4. While the chicken is frying, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, honey, butter, and apple cider vinegar. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sauce is well combined. Taste and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce if you like it spicier.
  5. Once the chicken is fried and rested, drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over each piece. You can also toss the chicken in the sauce in a bowl if you prefer an even coating. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor.
  6. Serve your Hot Honey Chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. The balance of sweet and spicy makes it a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a game night, this dish will definitely impress!
  7. Enjoy your homemade Hot Honey Chicken with a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and crispy goodness!