Honey Butter Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving old-school comfort food with a sweet and savory twist, you absolutely have to try Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Imagine crunchy golden chicken thighs cloaked in a buttery, honey drizzle that seeps into every crevice—each bite balances flavors and textures that keep you coming back for more. This isn’t just another fried chicken recipe; it’s a kitchen celebration that brings Southern charm and bold flavor to your table, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends at your next get-together!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh items, you’ll create a batch of Honey Butter Fried Chicken that tastes anything but ordinary. Each ingredient here is handpicked to deliver perfect crunch, juicy tenderness, and that signature sweet-savory finish we love.

• Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs stay super juicy while frying and soak up all the flavor.
• Buttermilk: This tangy marinade is the secret to tender chicken with a subtle richness.
• Hot sauce (optional): Just a dash adds the perfect hint of heat without overpowering the honeyed glaze.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the chicken a crispy, golden exterior that holds up to the honey butter.
• Cornstarch: The trick to an ultra-crunchy, light crust every time.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out every savory note in the coating.
• Black pepper: Adds depth and a gentle kick of spice.
• Paprika: A little smoky flavor and color for a craveworthy, appetizing finish.
• Garlic powder: Lends savory complexity that rounds out the marinade and coating.
• Vegetable oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying without flavor interference.
• Unsalted butter: Melts into a silky base for the honey glaze that truly sets this chicken apart.
• Honey: Pure, golden sweetness to drizzle over the crispy crust and make every bite memorable.

How to Make Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the buttermilk and optional hot sauce in a medium bowl. This creamy mixture acts as a flavor bath and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully. Submerge the chicken thighs fully and let them marinate in the fridge for at least one hour—or overnight, if you can wait. The longer marination injects every bite with extra juiciness and tastiness!

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Dredge

In a separate shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk thoroughly so every bit of chicken gets evenly coated in this aromatic blend. The cornstarch especially is your friend here, ensuring a supremely crispy crust.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove each chicken thigh from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press firmly—don’t be shy! This step is not just about coating, but adhering maximum crust for ultra-crunchy Honey Butter Fried Chicken. For extra crispiness, double dip: return the chicken to the buttermilk, then the flour mixture again.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, aiming for 350°F. Carefully place the coated thighs into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd—give them space to brown evenly. Fry for 6–7 minutes per side, turning only once, until gorgeously golden and cooked through (the internal temp should reach 165°F). Once done, remove them to a wire rack or paper towels so the extra oil drips away, keeping the crust crisp.

Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Glaze

While the chicken rests, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once silky, add the honey and stir until totally combined and gently warmed. This magical combo transforms the fried chicken from tasty to unforgettable. The aroma alone is worth the effort!

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Place the freshly fried chicken on your serving platter. Generously drizzle the warm honey butter glaze over each piece, making sure every nook gets its sweet, shiny coat. Serve immediately so the honey butter melts into the nooks and crannies, enhancing that signature Honey Butter Fried Chicken experience.

How to Serve Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Garnishes

Garnish your Honey Butter Fried Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for vibrant color, or a pinch of flaky sea salt for a gourmet finish. A few thinly sliced green onions or a little cracked black pepper add a fresh contrast to the sweet glaze—making every plate pop with color and taste.

Side Dishes

This chicken shines alongside classic Southern sides like fluffy buttermilk biscuits, golden cornbread, or a crisp and tangy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, add creamy mashed potatoes or mac and cheese—the sweet-savory chicken is fantastic with rich or creamy pairings.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to enjoy Honey Butter Fried Chicken in new ways, try slicing it over waffles for a brunch showstopper, or pile pieces onto a toasted brioche bun with pickles for an unforgettable sandwich. Kids love bite-sized pieces for dipping, and mini sliders are party-perfect!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Honey Butter Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The glaze will soak in and keep the chicken moist for up to three days—though you may find it disappears much sooner!

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze cooled fried chicken (before glazing) in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Freeze the honey butter separately and combine after reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can soften the crust. Warm the honey butter gently and drizzle just before serving to recreate that just-cooked magic.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be swapped in for thighs, though they may cook a bit faster. Monitor cooking time carefully to keep the chicken juicy. The honey butter glaze is fantastic on any cut.

How spicy is Honey Butter Fried Chicken?

If you use the hot sauce, the result is mild with just a background warmth. You can omit the hot sauce entirely for a purely sweet-savory version, or double it if you’re a heat-seeker.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a quality gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. The texture will still turn out beautifully crisp!

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point—vegetable, canola, or peanut oil all work great. This keeps the flavor pure and the chicken crust golden without burning.

Can I make Honey Butter Fried Chicken in an air fryer?

You can! Mist the dredged chicken with oil spray and air fry at 400°F for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. While it won’t be quite as deeply golden as traditional frying, the honey butter drizzle will still shine.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a plate of Honey Butter Fried Chicken with people you love—it’s comfort food at its absolute best. Once you taste that perfect blend of crisp, succulent chicken and luscious honey butter, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Go ahead and give this recipe a try; I promise, it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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