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 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup honey; 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

Hot Honey Chicken is a deliciously spicy and sweet dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of heat from the spices and the sweetness of honey creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:02:43.857Z

Hot Honey Chicken is a dish that brings together sweet and spicy elements, creating a delightful meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is bound to be a hit.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of heat and sweetness
Crispy chicken coated in a luscious hot honey glaze
Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying
Great for serving with your favorite sides

      

The Flavor Profile of Hot Honey Chicken

Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that captivates the palate. The spicy kick from the hot sauce, combined with the sweetness of honey, creates a unique taste sensation that is both comforting and exciting. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds. It’s the perfect dish to serve when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special.

The crispy exterior of the fried chicken adds an essential texture that complements the sauce beautifully. The crunch of the coating gives way to tender, juicy chicken inside, making each bite a harmonious blend of crispiness and moistness. The combination of spices in the coating enhances the overall flavor, giving it depth and richness that pairs wonderfully with the hot honey glaze.

Perfect Pairings for Hot Honey Chicken

Hot Honey Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. Consider serving it with creamy coleslaw, which provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. The coolness of the slaw helps to balance the heat, making for a well-rounded meal. Alternatively, fluffy rice or roasted vegetables can complement the dish beautifully, allowing the flavors to shine without overwhelming them.

For a fun twist, serve Hot Honey Chicken on a bed of waffles for a delicious brunch option. The combination of sweet and spicy chicken with the soft, warm waffles is a match made in heaven. Drizzle with extra hot honey for an added kick, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Sauce

1/2 cup honey
1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk with salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over low heat until combined and warm. Set aside.

Coat the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat each piece in the flour mixture.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Glaze with Hot Honey Sauce

Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried chicken or toss them together in a large bowl until well coated.

Serve

Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors!

Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Chicken!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the chicken's crispiness, reheat it in an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

For the hot honey sauce, store it separately in a sealed container. It can last for up to a week in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat before drizzling it over your reheated chicken.

Customization Ideas

Hot Honey Chicken can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences. If you prefer a different type of protein, try swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options will take on the flavors of the hot honey sauce beautifully and can be prepared in the same way.

You can also experiment with additional spices in the coating mixture. A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish. Additionally, consider adding fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or cilantro, for a burst of freshness before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the hot honey sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What sides pair well with Hot Honey Chicken?

Hot Honey Chicken pairs well with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.