Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Sweet, spicy, and incredibly flavorful, Hot Honey Chicken is a quick and easy dish that combines crispy chicken with a sticky, sweet heat-packed glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence, this recipe will have your family coming back for seconds. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s simply unforgettable!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Tongs

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ½ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture, coating evenly.

2. Fry the Chicken:

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk and bring to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Toss the Chicken in Sauce:

Place the fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.

5. Serve:

Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes balance the heat.
• Rice or Quinoa: Great for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a healthy touch with broccoli or green beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but adjust the frying time to ensure thorough cooking.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, prepare the sauce and refrigerate. Warm it up before tossing with the chicken.

This Hot Honey Chicken is a perfect mix of sweet and spicy, delivering a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!