Honey Fried Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Juicy & Flavorful

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering fried chicken recipe with a delicious honey glaze, you’re in the right place. This Honey Fried Chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or a special treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4-6 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For Frying:

• 3-4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For the Honey Glaze:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for spice)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. In another bowl, whisk eggs.
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off.
4. Dip each piece in the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and again into the flour mixture for a thick, crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook each piece for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Honey Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and hot sauce.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until smooth.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

1. Brush or drizzle the honey glaze over the fried chicken.
2. Let it set for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
• Add a side of extra honey glaze for dipping.
• Enjoy with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Tips for the Best Honey Fried Chicken

• Marinate overnight for the most flavorful chicken.
• Use cornstarch in the flour mix for extra crispiness.
• Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before glazing to keep it crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, brush with the honey glaze.

2. What’s the best oil for frying?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, as they have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the flavor.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy.

4. Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken tenders or breasts work great. Just reduce the frying time to 6-8 minutes per side.

5. Can I make this spicier?

Yes! Add extra cayenne pepper to the flour mix and more hot sauce to the honey glaze for extra heat.

Enjoy your homemade Honey Fried Chicken—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor!