Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

This Hot Honey Chicken is a sweet and spicy dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are air-fried to crispy perfection, then coated in a flavorful hot honey sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hot Honey Chicken:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut in half for faster cooking.
• Buttermilk: Adds flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
• All-purpose flour: Creates a light and crispy coating.
• Garlic powder and smoked paprika: Adds flavor and a touch of smokiness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• Hot sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot, for a spicy kick.
• Honey: Adds sweetness and balances the spice.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
• Chili powder and garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the sauce.

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a touch of freshness.

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the chicken to marinate and tenderize.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Spray the chicken with cooking spray on both sides. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, honey, butter, chili powder, and garlic powder. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the hot honey chicken with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken

• Weeknight Meal: This Hot Honey Chicken is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
• Appetizer: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers.
• Salad: Slice the chicken and add it to your favorite salad for a protein boost and a flavorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead:

You can marinate the chicken up to overnight and store it in the refrigerator.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I bake the chicken instead of air frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. However, the chicken may not be as crispy as the air-fried version.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, pressing it to remove excess moisture before marinating and cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Use a spicier hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or the hot honey sauce.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Hot Honey Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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