Honey Butter Fried Chicken is like a warm hug from your grandma on a cold day. Imagine biting into crispy, golden-brown chicken that practically sings with flavor, while the sweet honey butter drizzles over each piece like a dreamy cascade of happiness. It’s the kind of dish that has you doing a little happy dance in your kitchen because, let’s be real, who doesn’t love fried chicken?
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I tried Honey Butter Fried Chicken at a local diner. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to recreate this masterpiece at home. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe Whether it’s for a Sunday family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion that calls for some comfort food magic.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Making Honey Butter Fried Chicken is easier than you think, requiring just a few simple steps.
- The flavor combination of savory and sweet will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Visually stunning, this dish will impress anyone lucky enough to share your table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve alongside salads or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal experience.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Opt for skin-on pieces for extra crunch and flavor. You can use boneless options too if you’re feeling fancy.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will give your chicken that crispy coating we all crave. Make sure to season it well!
- Buttermilk: Essential for marinating the chicken, buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness.
- Honey: The star ingredient that brings sweetness and depth to the sauce; go for pure honey instead of syrup for the best flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t forget to season both the chicken and flour!
For the Sauce:
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle kick; it complements the sweetness of honey perfectly.
- Paprika: For color and a hint of smokiness; you can use smoked paprika if you want an extra layer of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour in enough buttermilk to cover them completely. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour (or up to overnight if you’re really planning ahead).
Step 2: Prepare Your Coating
In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be key in creating that crunchy outer layer.
Step 3: Heat Up Your Oil
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat enough oil (about two inches deep) over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test if it’s hot enough by dropping in a small piece of bread—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take each piece of marinated chicken out of the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off before dredging it in your seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated so you get maximum crunch!
Step 5: Fry That Chicken!
Carefully place your coated chicken into the hot oil—be sure not to overcrowd the pan! Fry for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Flip halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Step 6: Make It Sweet
While your chicken is frying away, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in honey until well combined. This honey butter sauce will add an irresistible glaze once drizzled over your fried chicken!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve hot with sides like coleslaw or cornbread and don’t forget extra napkins because things are about to get deliciously messy!
You Must Know
- This delightful honey butter fried chicken recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly simple to make.
- The combination of crispy chicken with sweet and buttery goodness creates a dish that will brighten your dinner table and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk to ensure tenderness. While it soaks, prepare the honey butter sauce. Once marinated, coat the chicken in seasoned flour, then fry until golden brown for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this honey butter fried chicken recipe by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or swapping honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness. Million Dollar Chicken Casserole You can also sprinkle fresh herbs over the finished dish for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover honey butter fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness instead of using a microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy chicken, let it rest after frying to allow excess oil to drain away.
- Use a thermometer to ensure oil is at 350°F for even cooking.
- Experiment with different honeys to find your favorite flavor profile!
Sharing this story always brings me joy: my grandma made her version of honey butter fried chicken every Sunday, and I still remember the smiles around our family table as we devoured it together.
FAQs :
What is Honey Butter Fried Chicken?
Honey Butter Fried Chicken combines the savory crunch of fried chicken with a sweet, buttery glaze. This dish typically features juicy pieces of chicken that are marinated, coated in seasoned flour, and deep-fried until golden brown. The honey butter sauce is drizzled over the crispy chicken, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. It’s a popular comfort food that adds a unique twist to traditional fried chicken recipes. For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
How do I make the honey butter sauce for Honey Butter Fried Chicken?
To create the honey butter sauce for Honey Butter Fried Chicken, you need unsalted butter, honey, and a pinch of salt. Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the honey and salt until well combined. Allow it to warm gently for a minute or two before drizzling it over your freshly fried chicken. This rich sauce enhances the dish’s flavor and adds a beautiful gloss.
Can I use frozen chicken for Honey Butter Fried Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Honey Butter Fried Chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it properly before cooking. Thaw your chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Ensuring that your chicken is completely thawed helps achieve even cooking and prevents any sogginess in the final fried product. Following this step will guarantee crispy skin and moist meat.
What sides pair well with Honey Butter Fried Chicken?
Honey Butter Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Classic options include creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or cornbread for added sweetness. You might also consider serving it with green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the fried chicken. Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini These complementary sides enhance the meal experience and create a satisfying dining atmosphere.
Conclusion for Honey Butter Fried Chicken :
Honey Butter Fried Chicken offers an irresistible blend of flavors that elevate traditional fried chicken to new heights. With its crispy exterior and luscious honey butter glaze, this dish is perfect for any occasion or gathering. Key steps include proper marination and frying techniques to ensure delicious results every time. By pairing it with complementary sides, you can create an unforgettable meal that satisfies both taste buds and hearts alike.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Honey Butter Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory crunch of perfectly fried chicken with a luscious honey butter glaze. Imagine juicy chicken pieces marinated in buttermilk, coated in seasoned flour, and fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with sweet honey butter for an unforgettable flavor experience. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, making it a beloved comfort food that everyone will adore.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk seasoned with salt and pepper for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat marinated chicken in the seasoned flour.
- Fry chicken for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in honey until well combined.
- Drizzle honey butter sauce over fried chicken before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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