Name: Crispy Hot Honey Chicken: 5 Irresistible Secrets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola); ½ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade); ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Crispy Hot Honey Chicken is an incredible recipe that blends sweet and savory flavors. This dish has become a favorite for its tantalizing combination of crunchy texture and a sticky, spicy glaze. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a burst of sweetness, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

This crispy hot honey chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

It combines the best of sweet and spicy in every bite.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, ready in just 40 minutes.
Offers a satisfying crunch thanks to the panko breadcrumbs.
Adaptable for different tastes with various serving options.
Great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.
A hit with both kids and adults, making it family-friendly.
It can be paired with various sides, from salads to rice.
Healthy option as it uses skinless chicken thighs, making it gluten-free.

Ingredients for Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
½ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl.
Step 4: Place the panko breadcrumbs in another bowl.
Step 5: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 7: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 9: While the chicken is frying, heat the hot honey in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.
Step 10: Drizzle the warm hot honey over the crispy chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 11: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken for an added layer of flavor.
Step 12: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.

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Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Let the oil reach the right temperature before adding chicken to prevent sogginess.
Use a thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
If you want extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the flour and panko mix.
This recipe is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve it over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Great as an appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

To store your crispy hot honey chicken, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, place the chicken in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain its crispiness, making it just as delicious as when freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Hot Honey Chicken

What is hot honey chicken?

Hot honey chicken combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. This dish has gained popularity for its unique flavor profile, making it a favorite at restaurants and home kitchens alike. For more on the origins of hot honey, check out this Serious Eats article.

Can I make crispy hot honey chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in the breading beforehand. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. This makes it easy for quick meals on busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy hot honey chicken?

Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy chicken. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy breading.

Variations of Crispy Hot Honey Chicken You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Make it a spicy honey fried chicken by adding more chili flakes to the hot honey.
Experiment with different glazes, such as a sweet and spicy fried chicken sauce made from maple syrup and sriracha.
Try using boneless chicken breasts for a healthier option with similar flavors.
Serve as sweet and spicy chicken wings for a party-friendly version.

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For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken or Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites.