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Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Crunchy, golden fried chicken tossed in a sweet-heat hot honey glaze. A crowd-pleaser with just the right kick.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs pat dry
  • 0.75 cup buttermilk for quick marinade
  • 1.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder helps lighten the crust
  • 1.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper adjust heat to taste
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt divided
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground, divided
  • 2 cup neutral frying oil such as canola or peanut
  • 0.5 cup honey for hot honey
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce for hot honey
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for balance
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted; optional for glossy glaze
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, extra heat
  • 0.5 cup sliced dill pickles for serving, optional

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Whisk buttermilk with 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
  • Stir flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and remaining salt and pepper in a bowl.
  • Set a wire rack over a sheet pan. Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F over medium heat.
  • Lift chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip. Dredge in flour mix, pressing to adhere. Rest 5 minutes.
  • Fry chicken in batches without crowding, 4–5 minutes per side, until deep golden and 165°F inside.
  • Transfer fried chicken to the rack. Keep warm while you make the glaze.
  • Warm honey, hot sauce, vinegar, butter, and red pepper in a small saucepan until just bubbling. Remove from heat.
  • Drizzle or brush hot honey over the chicken. Toss gently to coat if you like extra glaze.
  • Serve hot with pickle chips on the side.

Notes

Air fryer variation: Mist coated chicken with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway, then glaze. For extra-crispy oven reheat, warm leftovers at 400°F for 8–10 minutes; reheat glaze separately and drizzle before serving.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.