Name: Fried Chicken Biscuits With Hot Honey Butter Recipe
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Yield: 4
Ingredients: - 2 cups low fat buttermilk; - 2 tablespoons kosher salt; - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; - 2 cups all purpose flour; - 2 tablespoons garlic powder; - 1 tablespoon onion powder; - 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper; - 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper; - 1 tablespoon paprika; - Vegetable oil, as needed, for frying; - 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened at room temperature; - 3 tablespoons honey; - 1 tablespoon hot sauce of choice; - 4 Buttermilk biscuits, split in half lengthwise and warmed; - Bread and butter pickles, as needed

Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, the allure of Fried Chicken Biscuits with Hot Honey Butter is truly irresistible. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and taste wrapped up in a golden, flaky biscuit. What makes this dish so special is the perfect balance between spicy, sweet, and savory elements, leaving a tantalizing taste that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or seeking a delightful indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

A few years back, I hosted a small backyard gathering, and these chicken biscuits were the stars of the evening. As the sun set and golden hour enveloped us, the scent of crispy chicken and sweet honey butter filled the air. I remember the joy and laughter shared around the table, everyone eagerly reaching for seconds, a testament to the heartwarming power of a good meal.

The journey of fried chicken biscuits

Fried Chicken Biscuits with Hot Honey Butter bring together a delightful Southern classic. This dish celebrates the art of combining crispy, juicy fried chicken with the buttery, flaky goodness of a biscuit. Over time, the recipe has embraced vibrant influences, like the addition of hot honey butter, which marries heat and sweetness perfectly. Traditionally enjoyed at picnics or brunch, it reflects the South’s love for hearty, comfort food. The unique twist of hot honey butter adds a modern flair to this time-honored favorite, making it a beloved staple across generations.

What makes this dish so finger-licking good?

When it comes to comfort food with a spicy twist, Fried Chicken Biscuits with Hot Honey Butter are a real treat. Each ingredient brings its own charm, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Let’s see what makes each ingredient a star in this delightful recipe.

Buttermilk: The tenderizer! This low-fat option keeps our chicken juicy and flavorful. If you’re out, yogurt thinned with a bit of milk works wonders too. Look for a fresh batch—it lends a subtle tang the chicken adores. Plus, it’s a calcium booster! 🥛
Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavor profile while working with buttermilk to tenderize the meat. Sea salt can be your pinch-hitter if needed, but adjust to taste as it’s finer. A sprinkle of salt balances flavors beautifully in dishes like this one.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Oh, the juiciness! Thighs are known for their tender texture and rich flavor. Swap with chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat, though it might be a tad less juicy. Choose fresh, plump pieces for the best result. 🍗
All-Purpose Flour: Our crispy coating champion! It gives the chicken that classic, irresistible crust. In a pinch? Try a gluten-free blend. Always sift it for a lighter, airy coating that’s just perfect for frying.
Garlic Powder: The flavor enhancer that adds depth without overpowering. If you’re missing it, a touch of fresh garlic can step in, but adjust as it’s stronger. Pick a brand with a fresh, pungent aroma for the best kick.
Onion Powder: Balances the spices with its sweet, savory touch. Fresh onions can be a substitute but may alter the texture. Choose finely granulated powder for a smooth blend with flour, ensuring even seasoning.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity. If you’re out of black, white pepper can do the trick, though it’s more pungent. Grind it fresh to release those aromatic oils that elevate every bite.
Cayenne Pepper: Here’s the heat! It complements the honey butter perfectly. Paprika can mellow it down if cayenne’s too fiery for your liking. A pinch goes a long way in boosting metabolism while spicing things up.
Paprika: For smokiness and color! Adds a warm hue and subtle flavor. Smoked paprika brings extra depth if you have it. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve its vibrant color and freshness.
Vegetable Oil: The frying medium that ensures even cooking. Canola oil is a handy alternative if needed. Always opt for oils with high smoke points to maintain the chicken’s delicate flavor without burning. 🍳
Unsalted Butter: Creates the creamy base for our hot honey butter. Salted butter is okay but adjust the additional salt. Always let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother finish.
Honey: Sweet nectar that balances the heat! Maple syrup can step in if your pantry’s out of honey, although it’s a tad different. Choose raw honey for its unique taste and natural antioxidants.
Hot Sauce: Provides a tangy, spicy kick to the butter. Sriracha or Tabasco are great alternatives. Pick one you love because its flavor will shine through. Remember, a little heat goes a long way! 🌶️
Buttermilk Biscuits: The warm, flaky cradle for our chicken. If time’s tight, store-bought can save the day. Always warm them—nothing beats the aroma and texture of a freshly heated biscuit.
Bread and Butter Pickles: These add a refreshing crunch and tang. Dill pickles can work, albeit with a different taste. Choose ones with vibrant color and firm texture for the best bite.

Each ingredient plays its part in creating a comforting, mouthwatering dish that’s bound to impress. Enjoy every step of the process and savor the delightful results!

Must-have tools for fried chicken magic🍽️

In any home kitchen, a few trusty tools can make all the difference in cooking up delicious meals. Let’s dive into some essentials that might just become your new best friends.

Cast Iron Skillet or Dutch Oven: These heavy-duty beauties are perfect for frying chicken, thanks to their ability to maintain a steady temperature. If you don’t have one, a deep, heavy-bottomed pan will do the trick.
Stand Mixer: Whipping together the hot honey butter is a breeze with this versatile appliance. In its absence, an electric hand mixer or even a good old-fashioned whisk can get the job done.
Cooling Rack: Essential for draining fried foods without them getting soggy, a cooling rack helps keep that delightful crispiness intact. If you’re in a pinch, a paper towel-lined plate can work too.
Thermometer: Ensuring your oil is at the right temperature for frying is crucial to achieve that perfect golden crust. No thermometer? Test with a piece of bread—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go.

Making fried chicken biscuits—your new comfort food ritual👩‍🍳

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and pouring in the buttermilk along with kosher salt. Give it a good whisk until the salt dissolves. Now, gently add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged in this tangy brine bath. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour, or if you can plan ahead, let those flavors develop overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
When you’re ready to fry, it’s time to mix up the seasoning for the chicken. In another large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until it looks like a dusty rainbow of spices. This is where the magic coating for crispy chicken begins!
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Get your trusty cast iron pan or Dutch oven and fill it up with vegetable oil, enough so it’s about an inch deep. Now, patience is key as you heat the oil to 350ºF. If you don’t have a thermometer, toss in a little flour—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Now, the messy but fun part. Take the chicken out of the fridge, remove each thigh from the buttermilk bath, and shake off any excess. Dredge each piece in your seasoned flour, making sure it’s thoroughly coated. Give it a little shake to let loose any extra flour that’s just hanging around.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Let them fry until beautifully golden on all sides, which should take around 8 minutes. Remember not to overcrowd the pan as it can drop the oil temperature. Once done, transfer them to a cooling rack over a baking sheet or a plate lined with paper towels to drain the extra oil.
Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Butter
For the pièce de résistance, combine softened butter, honey, and your chosen hot sauce in the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Whisk until it’s creamy and smooth. If a stand mixer isn’t handy, grab a whisk and do it by hand—it’s a good arm workout!
Step 7: Assemble the Biscuits
Time to bring it all together. Take your warm buttermilk biscuits, split them in half, and place a crispy chicken thigh on each bottom half. Generously dollop a tablespoon of that luscious hot honey butter over the chicken, add a few bread and butter pickles, and top it off with the other biscuit half. Serve right away while everything is still warm and inviting. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, or in this case, the buttery, spicy, crispy goodness of your creation!

Twists and tweaks for your chicken biscuit delight

For a gluten-free twist, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It keeps the chicken crispy and deliciously robust. I tried a vegan version by using tofu instead of chicken and replacing the buttermilk with a plant-based alternative—it was surprisingly satisfying! To cut down on carbs, enjoy the fried chicken atop a bed of lettuce with a drizzle of hot honey butter. For a global flair, add a dash of soy sauce to the honey butter for an Asian-inspired kick; it really brings a delightful umami element.

Ways to wow with your fried chicken biscuits!

Imagine a rustic wooden board laden with golden fried chicken biscuits. Pile them high for a dramatic centerpiece, drizzling them generously with hot honey butter that glistens under candlelight. Garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary for a pop of green and an aromatic touch. For a playful twist, toss a few pickled jalapeños on the side, adding a zingy contrast. Pair with a chilled cucumber salad dressed simply with lemon and dill, offering a refreshing balance. Each bite promises a symphony of flavors, making your dinner party not just a meal, but an experience to remember.

Sip suggestions for your spicy chicken delights

When I whip up those delicious fried chicken biscuits with hot honey butter, I like to pair them with an ice-cold glass of homemade lemonade. The zesty citrus punch balances the spicy-sweet notes of the hot honey butter, creating a delightful dance of flavors in every bite.

Sometimes, a chilled sweet tea does the trick too, offering a gentle, refreshing contrast. Or, if I’m feeling a bit adventurous, I might sip on a ginger-infused sparkling water. It’s like a little fizzy party that compliments the crispy, savory magic happening on my plate.

Storing leftovers: keep that crispy magic alive!

Once you’ve savored those scrumptious fried chicken biscuits, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready for round two, preheat your oven to 350°F and wrap the biscuits in foil to keep them moist, warming them for about 15 minutes. It’s crucial to heat until piping hot to ensure food safety. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just a couple of minutes will do, but keep an eye on them to avoid soggy biscuits. Enjoy your delicious meal safely!

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Navigating the world of fried chicken can be a delightful adventure, though a few common pitfalls often trip folks up. One misstep is skipping the lengthy buttermilk soak. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor, so let the clock tick away!

When it’s time to fry, ensure your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too cold, your chicken will absorb excess oil and turn greasy; too hot, and you might end up with a burnt exterior and an undercooked interior.

Another classic blunder is not shaking off excess flour before frying. This can lead to a coating that falls off or isn’t crispy. Finally, avoid overloading the pan – it lowers the oil’s temperature and leads to uneven cooking. Keep your batches small, and your chicken will thank you with a golden, crispy crust!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

The chicken needs a good soak in the buttermilk bath for at least 1 hour. If you have some extra time, leaving it overnight really lets those flavors sink in.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken may need a bit more time to cook through. Adjust the frying time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any on hand?

No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar with enough milk to make 2 cups. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
What type of hot sauce works best for the hot honey butter?

It’s all about personal preference! Whether you like it mild or super spicy, choose a hot sauce that matches your taste. A classic like Frank’s RedHot or a smoky chipotle sauce can both add unique flavors.
How do I keep the fried chicken crispy if I’m not serving it right away?

To maintain that delightful crunch, place the fried chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200ºF). This keeps it warm and crisp without getting soggy.

Savor the last bite: your thoughts?🎉

Imagine the joy of biting into a crispy, juicy piece of fried chicken nestled between a warm, buttery biscuit, all drizzled with a kick of hot honey butter. Doesn’t it sound like a treat worth savoring? This recipe is your canvas—feel free to paint it with your favorite spices or add a twist that makes it uniquely yours. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, these biscuits promise smiles all around. So grab your apron and give it a whirl; every bite’s a little celebration of flavor!