Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate combination of sweet and spicy, a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat with their meals. This dish features crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sticky hot honey glaze that’s both addictive and easy to make. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to spice up your weeknight dinners, Hot Honey Chicken is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs or breasts and ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
2. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in 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). Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the glaze is well combined.
2. Simmer the Glaze: Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

1. Coat the Chicken: Place the fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey glaze over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Serve the Hot Honey Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired.
2. Serving Suggestions: Pair with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance the heat of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the spicy-sweet chicken.
• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread is a classic Southern side that complements the flavors of Hot Honey Chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, hearty base that balances the dish’s heat.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A cold, refreshing glass of iced tea can help cool down the heat from the hot honey glaze.
• Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade pairs nicely with the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Chicken

• Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them ideal for this recipe. However, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
• Bone-In vs. Boneless: While this recipe uses boneless chicken, bone-in pieces can be used for extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Adjusting the Heat

• Control the Spice Level: The amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your preference. For milder heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce or opt for a milder variety.

Making It Healthier

• Baking Instead of Frying: For a healthier version, the chicken can be baked instead of fried. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken is a deliciously addictive dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. With its crispy coating and sticky glaze, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a staple in your dinner rotation!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze separately and combine them just before serving. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispiness.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the chicken crispy.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What other sauces can I use with this chicken?

While hot honey is a favorite, you can also try a buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, or a garlic butter sauce for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dish gluten-free.

Yield: 4

Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

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Hot Honey Chicken is the ultimate combination of sweet and spicy, a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat with their meals. This dish features crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sticky hot honey glaze that’s both addictive and easy to make. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to spice up your weeknight dinners, Hot Honey Chicken is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
   Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
   Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and is well blended.
   
4. Coat the Chicken:
   Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat in the hot honey sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure it's fully covered.
   
5. Serve:
   Once the chicken is well coated and heated through, remove it from the skillet.
   Serve the hot honey chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Adjusting Heat: The level of spiciness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper.

Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a juicier option, but the cooking time will increase by about 10-15 minutes.

Hot Honey: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot sauce or replace it with a milder option like sweet chili sauce.

Make-Ahead: The hot honey sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it before coating the chicken.

Serving Ideas: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. The sweet and spicy flavors also make it great for sandwiches or wraps.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.