Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Spicy Honey Drizzle

Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Spicy Honey Drizzle

Buttermilk fried chicken is a beloved comfort food with its crisp, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. But when paired with a spicy honey drizzle, this classic dish takes on a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of rich, savory chicken and sweet heat makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family meals, weekend gatherings, or even casual weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dish at home.

For the Fried Chicken:

  • 8 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, or a mix)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Spicy Honey Drizzle:

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (your choice, but something with a balance of heat and flavor works best)
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the buttermilk for flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds subtle flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Mixture

In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour mixture will form the crispy coating for your chicken. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing the mixture into the chicken to form an even layer. For extra crunch, you can dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then dredge it again in the flour for a double coating.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot, but not smoking (around 350°F or 175°C is ideal for frying). Working in batches, carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin-side down first. Fry for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain the chicken after frying. This keeps it crispy while letting any excess oil drip off.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Honey Drizzle

While the chicken is frying, make the spicy honey drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and butter. Heat over low until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Serve and Drizzle

Once all the chicken is fried and crispy, it's time to serve. Arrange the fried chicken on a platter and generously drizzle the spicy honey over the top. For those who prefer a little less heat, serve the drizzle on the side so everyone can customize their own portion.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t rush the frying process: Frying at a lower temperature and giving each piece of chicken enough space in the pan will ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t become greasy.
  • Make sure your oil is at the right temperature: If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
  • Double dredge for extra crunch: For an ultra-crispy coating, dredge the chicken twice—first in buttermilk, then in the seasoned flour mixture.

Buttermilk fried chicken with spicy honey drizzle pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a classic Southern meal. A fresh salad or sautéed greens also make a great contrast to the richness of the chicken.

This buttermilk fried chicken with spicy honey drizzle brings the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and heat to your table. Whether you’re a fried chicken enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The crispy coating, juicy interior, and sticky drizzle create an unforgettable combination that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only. All information in this article is sourced from other websites, and we do not represent any rights regarding the contents and information on the site. All rights belong to their original owner.

Back to blog