Sweet, spicy, and perfectly crispy — Hot Honey Chicken is the flavor-packed comfort food you didn’t know you needed. This mouthwatering dish brings together tender, golden-fried chicken pieces glazed with a sticky, warm honey sauce that carries just the right kick of heat. It strikes a bold balance of fiery and sweet with a crunch that stays through every juicy bite. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or game day gathering, this chicken earns rave reviews every time.

The real magic happens when the hot honey glaze soaks into the crispy coating, creating layers of texture and flavor that are simply irresistible. With a hint of garlic, tangy vinegar, and chili flakes, this homemade glaze delivers the perfect punch without overwhelming the senses. Serve it up with pickles, slaw, or even waffles for a twist that turns this into a show-stopping main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Chicken

Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The hot honey glaze is addictive, pairing sweetness with just the right level of heat.
Crispy Perfection: Double dredged and fried for a golden, crunchy exterior that holds up to saucing.
Versatile Main: Works well as a dinner centerpiece, game-day bite, or even a sandwich filler.
Easy Glaze Prep: The sauce comes together in minutes with pantry staples.
Crowd Favorite: Always the first dish to disappear at potlucks or parties.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, having the right setup will make your kitchen experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are the key tools and why each is important:

Heavy-Bottom Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for even frying and temperature control. A cast iron skillet is a favorite for consistent heat.
Tongs: Essential for safely flipping and removing chicken without splashing oil.
Wire Rack Over Baking Sheet: Helps drain excess oil and keeps chicken crispy as it cools.
Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for the flour dredge, egg wash, and seasoned coating.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Saucepan: For making the hot honey glaze quickly and evenly.

Ingredients for the Hot Honey Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Bone-in, skin-on pieces give you juiciness and flavor that can’t be beat.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of that ultra-crispy crust.
Cornstarch: Adds an extra crunch to the coating.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Infuses the chicken with a warm, savory aroma.
Paprika: Adds color and a mild smokiness.
Eggs: Help bind the flour coating for maximum crisp.
Salt & Pepper: Foundational flavor essentials.
Oil for Frying: Use a neutral high-heat oil like peanut or vegetable oil.
Honey: The heart of the glaze — sweet, thick, and sticky.
Red Pepper Flakes: Bring the heat for the “hot” in hot honey.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a tangy note.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze cling to the chicken.

How To Make the Hot Honey Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, cornstarch, and seasonings (paprika, garlic, onion powder); one with beaten eggs; and one with seasoned flour again.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat

Take each chicken piece from the buttermilk, dredge in seasoned flour, dip in eggs, then coat again in the final flour mix. Press to ensure a thick, even coating.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in your skillet to 350°F. Carefully fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally until crispy and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Drain on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine honey, butter, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Simmer until the butter melts and flavors meld.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle or brush the hot honey glaze over the warm fried chicken. Garnish with chives or pickled jalapeños for extra flair.

How to Serve and Store Your Hot Honey Chicken

Serve Hot Honey Chicken while it’s fresh and sizzling! It pairs beautifully with buttery cornbread, creamy coleslaw, or a fluffy stack of waffles for brunch. Try it in a toasted brioche bun with slaw for an unforgettable sandwich twist.

To store leftovers, let chicken cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. It stays good for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to revive the crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

For freezing, skip the glaze until ready to serve. Freeze cooked, unglazed chicken pieces and reheat them in the oven, then brush on fresh hot honey before serving.