If you’re searching for a dish that combines crispy, golden goodness with a sweet and savory twist, look no further than honey buttered fried chicken. This recipe takes the classic comfort food we all adore and elevates it with a luscious honey butter glaze that’s hard to resist. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the reasons why you’ll fall in love with honey buttered fried chicken and how to make it yourself!

Reasons to Love Honey Buttered Fried Chicken

There are countless reasons to adore honey buttered fried chicken. Here are just a few:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey and rich butter creates a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the savory, crispy chicken.
Texture Paradise: The crispy exterior of the fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender meat inside.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any culinary expertise.
Versatile Dish: Whether served with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or on a sandwich, honey buttered fried chicken fits seamlessly into any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is ideal for casual family dinners, weekend get-togethers, or even a special celebration.

What You’ll Gather

Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1″ cubes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup ice cold water
Vegetable oil (enough for frying)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
4 tbsp butter
2 tbsp white sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey

Appliances & Accessories

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential appliances and accessories:

Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: For frying your chicken to crispy perfection.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to great results.
Cooking Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
Slotted Spoon: Helps to remove the fried chicken from the oil without excess grease.
Mixing Bowls: For mixing your batter and ingredients.
Paper Towels: To drain excess oil after frying.

How to Prepare Honey Buttered Fried Chicken

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your own honey buttered fried chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1″ cubes. This size ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy inside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. Whisk together until well combined. Gradually add the ice-cold water to the dry ingredients, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chicken cubes. Aim for a temperature of about 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each cube of chicken into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before frying.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the battered chicken cubes into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Honey Butter Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the white sugar, soy sauce, and honey until well combined. Let it simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

Step 7: Glaze the Chicken

Drizzle the honey butter glaze over the fried chicken, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color.

Make It Fit Your Plan

Looking to customize your honey buttered fried chicken? Here are some ideas:

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
Try using different cuts of chicken, such as breasts or wings, for a variation.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Experiment with different sweeteners such as maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your honey buttered fried chicken turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

Overcrowding the frying pan can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken.
Not allowing the oil to reach the right temperature can result in greasy chicken.
Skipping the draining step can lead to overly oily chicken.
Not letting the glaze simmer long enough may result in a less flavorful coating.

Shelf Life & Storage

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely), here’s how to store them:

Store cooled honey buttered fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months.
To reheat, bake in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as needed since breasts may cook faster.

What can I serve with honey buttered fried chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it on a sandwich for a delicious twist!

Can I make the honey butter glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before drizzling over your chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! Honey buttered fried chicken is perfect for meal prepping. Just store it in individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

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Bring It Home

Now that you have all the details on how to make honey buttered fried chicken, it’s time to get in the kitchen and create this mouthwatering dish. With its delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a plateful of this crispy, tasty treat. Don’t forget to share your culinary success with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds before they even finish their first! Happy cooking!