Hot Honey Chicken

Name: Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup honey; 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

Deliciously sweet and spicy, Hot Honey Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:30:44.402Z

Hot Honey Chicken combines the savory flavor of fried chicken with a sweet and spicy honey glaze that elevates it to a whole new level. Perfect for dinner or as a game day snack!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Crispy chicken coated in a sticky honey glaze
Easily customizable heat level to suit your taste
Great for meal prep or entertaining guests

      

A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Hot Honey Chicken is not just a dish; it's an experience that caters to various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering with friends, planning a family dinner, or looking for a dish that impresses at a potluck, this recipe fits the bill. The sweet and spicy flavors will tantalize taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.

This dish can easily become the star of your menu. Pair it with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a well-rounded meal that satisfies. The crispy chicken, combined with the sticky glaze, creates a delightful contrast that your guests will rave about long after the meal is over.

Customizing Your Heat Level

One of the best features of Hot Honey Chicken is its versatility when it comes to spice. The recipe includes red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your palate. For those who prefer a milder flavor, start with just one teaspoon. If you're a fan of heat, feel free to add more! This customization allows everyone at the table to enjoy the dish without compromising their taste preferences.

Additionally, consider experimenting with different types of hot sauces or peppers to create a unique flavor profile. From jalapeños to habaneros, the possibilities are endless. This flexibility makes Hot Honey Chicken a go-to recipe that can evolve with your cooking style.

Meal Prep Made Easy

Hot Honey Chicken is not only delicious; it's also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, letting the flavors infuse for longer. Once cooked, the chicken stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a perfect choice for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.

To enjoy this dish throughout the week, store the fried chicken in an airtight container and reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. Drizzle the hot honey glaze just before serving for that fresh, sticky finish. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious meal ready to go whenever you need it!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Glaze

1/2 cup honey
1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken breasts and buttermilk. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Breading

In another bowl, mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine honey, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over low until warmed through, stirring to combine.

Glaze the Chicken

Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Hot Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the fried chicken. A zesty lemon vinaigrette can cut through the sweetness of the honey glaze, creating a harmonious plate.

For a more hearty option, serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. The sticky glaze can be drizzled over these sides, enhancing their flavor and making every bite more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you've made a batch of Hot Honey Chicken and have leftovers, storing them properly is crucial. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken after it has cooled completely.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method will help retain the chicken's crispiness while warming it through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and may be even juicier.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the honey glaze.

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.