Hot Honey Chicken

Name: Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup honey; 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this Hot Honey Chicken recipe. It's crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-01T20:50:44.026Z

This Hot Honey Chicken recipe combines the crunch of fried chicken with a sweet and spicy honey glaze that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for dinner or any gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Crispy chicken with a sticky glaze that’s incredibly addictive
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Discover the Flavor Profile

Hot Honey Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that dances on your palate. The combination of sweet honey and spicy red pepper flakes creates a unique glaze that enhances the juicy, crispy chicken. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.

The sweetness of honey balances beautifully with the heat from cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes, making this dish appealing to a wide range of taste buds. Whether you’re a spice lover or someone who enjoys a milder flavor, this recipe caters to all preferences, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons Hot Honey Chicken is a go-to recipe is its versatility. Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering, preparing a family dinner, or seeking a quick weeknight meal, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to prep and can be served with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Moreover, the quick cooking time means you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dish that not only tastes amazing but looks impressive on the table. Your guests will be raving about it long after the meal is over.

Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken

To achieve the crispiest chicken possible, make sure to fully coat your chicken thighs in the seasoned flour mixture. This creates a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist meat inside. Additionally, using skin-on chicken thighs will enhance the flavor and juiciness of the dish.

When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. This prevents the chicken from becoming greasy and ensures it cooks evenly. For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before breading; this will tenderize the meat and add a delightful richness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Glaze

1/2 cup honey
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt to taste

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Dredge the chicken thighs in the flour mixture until fully coated.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken thighs for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let drain on paper towels.

Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine honey, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over low heat until warm and well mixed.

Glaze the Chicken

Toss the hot fried chicken in the hot honey glaze until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

Hot Honey Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to balance the heat. For a more Southern twist, coleslaw or cornbread can complement the flavors beautifully.

If you're looking for something lighter, a simple quinoa salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra hot honey glaze over the sides for an added punch of flavor!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Hot Honey Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its crispy texture, reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the chicken soggy.

If you wish to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the frying time accordingly.

→ How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less red pepper flakes to your preference.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the hot honey glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What sides pair well with Hot Honey Chicken?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad.