Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

If you love the bold flavors of sweet, spicy, and ultra-crunchy chicken, the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. This dish brings together tender, marinated chicken, a shatteringly crisp coating, and a luscious drizzle of homemade hot honey. The flavor balance is downright addictive—juicy, savory, with a thrum of heat and a touch of sticky sweetness in every bite. Whether you serve it up for a family dinner or a game day treat, every forkful is pure joy!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a simple list of pantry staples can create such unforgettable flavor! Each ingredient in the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe plays a unique part, from bringing out the juiciness of the chicken to elevating the crunch factor and sparking up the sauce. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a little tip for each.

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts (1½ pounds, cut into strips): Thighs bring extra juiciness, while breasts offer leaner bites—pick your favorite!
• Buttermilk (1 cup): This magical marinade ensures the chicken is ultra-tender and flavorful.
• Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon for marinade, 1 tablespoon for sauce): Adds the perfect kick to both the chicken and the sweet-honey glaze; your favorite brand works great.
• All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups): The key to that crave-worthy, golden breading—don’t skimp!
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives gorgeous color and subtle warmth to the coating.
• Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): For a savory flavor boost in every crispy bite.
• Cayenne Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adjust to dial the heat up or down as you like.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer—don’t forget them.
• Vegetable Oil (for frying): Neutral oil is perfect for deep frying and letting the flavors shine.
• Honey (⅓ cup): The star of the hot honey sauce—choose a good quality for maximum flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For that extra pop of spice on top.

How to Make Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl. Toss in your chicken strips, coating every piece thoroughly. Let it soak up this flavorful bath in your fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you have a few hours, even better! This step ensures the chicken is not only super juicy but also infused with a gentle tang and heat from the very start.

Step 2: Mix Up the Breading

While your chicken marinates, grab a shallow dish and mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour is the secret to a shatteringly crisp crust with every bite. Don’t be shy—taste a pinch to see if it needs a bit more salt or heat before moving on!

Step 3: Dredge and Coat

Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip away. Dredge it in the seasoned flour, pressing each strip firmly so the breading sticks. This extra step of pressing in the coating is what makes the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe truly live up to its name—crunchy perfection!

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet and heat it over medium-high until it reaches 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 5-6 minutes per side, flipping until each piece is gorgeously golden and cooked through. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate so any extra oil can drain off and the coating stays super crisp.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

Time to whip up the pièce de résistance! In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together the honey, hot sauce, and (if you’re feeling bold) red pepper flakes. Heat for 2-3 minutes until everything melds together into a glossy, sticky sauce. You can adjust the spice level to your heart’s content!

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Arrange your crispy chicken on a platter and drizzle generously with that warm, spicy-sweet hot honey sauce. Be ready for the crowd to go wild—the mixing of textures and flavors is total magic in every bite.

How to Serve Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Bring your Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe to life with fresh garnishes! Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for color, a few more red pepper flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon over the top to brighten up every bite.

Side Dishes

This chicken is begging to be paired with classics like fluffy biscuits, fluffy waffles, or a cool, crunchy slaw. For a homestyle meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies—each side soaks up the sauce in the most delicious way.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, make sliders with mini buns and pickles, or pile the chicken on a waffle with an extra drizzle of hot honey for a brunch twist. For a fun twist, slice up and tuck it into tacos with some tangy slaw or serve family-style on a big platter for a wow-worthy, shareable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place a paper towel underneath to help absorb any extra moisture and keep the coating crisp.

Freezing

If you want to save a batch for later, freeze the cooled chicken pieces uncovered on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps the pieces separate and helps maintain that signature crunch when reheating.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-from-the-skillet crispiness, reheat the chicken in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or air-fry for 4-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften the breading. Warm the hot honey sauce separately and drizzle after reheating!

FAQs

Can I make the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe without deep frying?

Absolutely! For a lighter version, bake the coated chicken strips on a wire rack at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. For extra crunch, give them a light mist of oil before baking. They won’t be quite as shatteringly crisp as fried, but they’ll still be delicious!

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The heat is customizable! Start with the base amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes, then taste and adjust to your preference. You can make it mild and sweet or bring the fire—totally up to you.

Can I use chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, chicken tenders work beautifully in the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe. They’re already the perfect size for dredging, frying, and snacking—plus they cook quickly and stay extra juicy.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for buttermilk?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened plant-based milk mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly, then proceed as usual.

Can I double the hot honey sauce?

Yes—go right ahead! If you’re a sauce lover or want extra for dipping biscuits and sides, feel free to double the hot honey sauce quantities. It keeps well in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Few things compare to the sweet, spicy, and supremely satisfying flavor of a home-cooked Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe. Whether you’re a spice fanatic or just looking for a fun new dish to shake up your dinner routine, this one’s guaranteed to impress. Grab your favorite hot sauce and dig in—it’s sure to become a regular at your table!

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