This Easy Hot Honey Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every single time. It's about to become one of your go-to favorites!
Did You Know?
Pro Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to make hot honey at home?
Warm 1 cup honey with 2-3 tablespoons red pepper flakes over low heat for 10 minutes. Strain for smooth sauce or leave the flakes for extra heat and texture.
2. What cut of chicken works best with hot honey?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs hold up best to the sticky glaze. Chicken tenders or drumsticks are also great options for hot honey chicken.
3. How do I get the chicken crispy under the hot honey glaze?
Dredge in seasoned flour, then fry or bake until golden and crispy. Drizzle the hot honey immediately after cooking so it sticks to the warm, crispy surface.
4. Is hot honey chicken very spicy?
It is a controlled heat — sweet first, then a warm tingle builds. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the honey to match your spice tolerance.
5. Can I use store-bought hot honey?
Yes, Mike's Hot Honey and Bees Knees are both excellent brands available at most grocery stores. They save time and deliver consistent flavor.
6. Should I bake or fry the chicken?
Frying gives the crispiest coating for the hot honey to cling to. Baking at 425°F on a wire rack is a less messy alternative that still produces good results.
7. What breading works best for hot honey chicken?
Seasoned flour with cornstarch for a light crispy coating, or buttermilk-dipped in seasoned flour for a thicker Southern-style crust. Both hold the hot honey glaze well.
8. What should I serve with hot honey chicken?
Waffles for a hot honey chicken and waffles combo, biscuits, coleslaw, pickles, mac and cheese, or a simple green salad to balance the sweet heat.
9. Can I prep hot honey chicken ahead for parties?
Bread and fry the chicken ahead, keep warm in a 200°F oven, and drizzle with hot honey right before serving. The glaze is best applied fresh.
10. How long does homemade hot honey keep?
Stored in a sealed jar at room temperature, hot honey keeps for months — honey is a natural preservative. The heat may mellow slightly over time.
Watch How to Make This
Easy Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk and salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Heat over low heat until warm and well mixed. Set aside.
- In another large bowl or shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing to adhere. Shake off any excess flour.
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Generously drizzle the warm hot honey over the fried chicken while it's still hot, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Serve the hot honey chicken immediately while it's crispy and warm. Pair with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite sides.
Notes
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until heated through. Pro Tip: This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to use different cuts of chicken, adjust the heat level of the hot honey, and even bake instead of fry, making it perfect for a variety of preferences and dietary needs.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
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