Imagine biting into a piece of fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all while drizzled with sweet and spicy hot honey. This is exactly what I offer with my Hot Honey Fried Chicken recipe. In this post, you’ll find easy ingredients, clear instructions, and helpful tips to create this flavorful delight. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dish they’ll crave again and again!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Hot Honey Fried Chicken
To make hot honey fried chicken, you need a few key items. Here’s the list:
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust for spice)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
These main ingredients bring flavor and texture to your dish. The chicken thighs give you juicy meat and crispy skin. Buttermilk makes the chicken tender and adds taste. Hot sauce adds a kick, while flour creates that crunchy coating.
Seasoning and Coating Ingredients
Next, we add some seasoning to boost flavor. You’ll need:
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
These spices mix well with the flour. They add depth to the chicken and make each bite exciting. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you love garlic, add more garlic powder!
Optional Ingredients for Extra Heat
If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider these optional ingredients:
– 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust for heat level)
Adding red pepper flakes to the hot honey glaze gives your dish an extra punch. You can control how spicy you want it. This way, you can make the chicken as hot as you like.
For the full details on how to prepare this dish, check out the Full Recipe. Enjoy cooking and impress your friends with this flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by mixing the buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl. This mix adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy. Place the chicken thighs in the bowl, covering them fully. Wrap the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best taste.
Preparing the Coating
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the dry ingredients blend well. This mixture gives the chicken a crispy, tasty crust.
Frying the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet. Get the oil hot, aiming for 350°F (175°C). Carefully take the chicken thighs from the buttermilk. Let any extra liquid drip off, then dredge each thigh in the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken for a thick coating. Fry the chicken, skin-side down, for 7-10 minutes on each side. Look for a deep golden color and an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Fry in batches if needed to keep the oil hot.
Making the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat. Stir in the red pepper flakes to your liking. This adds a sweet and spicy twist. Let it warm for a few minutes to infuse the flavors, then remove it from the heat.
Draining and Glazing the Chicken
Once the chicken is crispy, place it on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up oil. While the chicken is warm, drizzle the hot honey glaze over the top. You can also serve the glaze on the side for dipping. Enjoy the blend of crunch and sweet heat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture
To make your hot honey fried chicken crispy, follow a few key steps. First, marinate the chicken in buttermilk. This adds moisture and helps the coating stick. The flour mixture should be seasoned well. Use garlic powder and smoked paprika for flavor. Make sure to coat each piece well. Press the flour onto the chicken to form a thick layer. Fry at the right temperature of 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will not crisp up. Cook in batches to keep the oil hot.
Adjusting Spice Levels for Your Preference
Spice levels can vary based on your taste. Start with the basic hot sauce in the marinade. If you like more heat, add extra cayenne to the flour mix. For the hot honey, add red pepper flakes to your liking. You can make it sweet or spicy. Always test a small piece to see if it meets your heat preference. Adjust the ingredients as you go.
Choosing the Right Oil for Frying
Oil choice is key for frying chicken. Use vegetable oil or peanut oil for high smoke points. These oils can hold up to the heat needed for frying. Avoid using olive oil, as it burns easily. Fill your pan with enough oil, about 2 inches deep. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Always check the oil temperature with a thermometer. Hot oil gives you that perfect crunch!
For the full recipe, check below.
Variations
Alternatives to Chicken Thighs
You can use different cuts of chicken for this recipe. Drumsticks offer a fun twist. They are easy to hold and bite into. Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but they can dry out faster. For a vegetarian option, try using cauliflower. It soaks up the marinade well and becomes crispy when fried.
Different Heat Levels for Hot Honey
The heat in hot honey can vary. Use more or less hot sauce to change the spice level. If you want a mild version, use just a little hot sauce. For a fiery kick, add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also try different hot sauces, like sriracha or chipotle sauce, for unique flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Hot honey fried chicken pairs great with many sides. Creamy coleslaw offers a cool crunch. Baked beans add a sweet and savory touch. You can serve it with cornbread for a comforting meal. For a fresh option, a simple green salad balances the heat well. Experiment with your favorites to make it your own.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Hot Honey Fried Chicken
To store leftover hot honey fried chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Place the chicken in an airtight container. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure it is well-sealed to keep out moisture.
Reheating Tips to Maintain Crispiness
When you want to reheat your chicken, the oven is best. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
Freezing Hot Honey Fried Chicken
If you want to freeze hot honey fried chicken, first let it cool completely. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What is the best way to ensure crispy fried chicken?
To get crispy fried chicken, start with dry chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Marinate it in buttermilk for at least two hours. This adds flavor and helps the coating stick. Use a good amount of oil and heat it to 350°F. Fry the chicken in small batches. This keeps the oil hot and helps the chicken cook evenly. Finally, let the chicken rest on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
Can I make hot honey fried chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can make hot honey fried chicken in the oven! First, marinate the chicken as usual. Then, coat it with the seasoned flour mix. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes. Flip it halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you want a crispy finish, broil it for a few minutes at the end. Drizzle the hot honey on top after baking for a sweet touch.
How can I adjust the recipe for a healthier version?
To make a healthier version, use skinless chicken pieces. You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it. Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt or a plant-based milk. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for more fiber. Reduce the amount of honey and red pepper flakes for a lighter glaze. These changes will keep the flavor while making the dish healthier.
What sides pair well with hot honey fried chicken?
Hot honey fried chicken pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with creamy coleslaw for crunch. Macaroni and cheese adds a rich flavor. A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the meal. Also, cornbread is a classic choice for a comforting touch. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Hot honey fried chicken combines tasty flavors, crispy texture, and a sweet kick. This blog showed you how to prepare it step-by-step, from marinating to frying. I shared tips for the best texture and ways to add more heat. You learned about variations, storage, and answered FAQs too.
Now you can enjoy making this dish at home. Experiment with spices and enjoy the crispy goodness!
