Name: Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon white pepper; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon ginger powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference); 2 cups all-purpose flour (for seasoned flour); 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for seasoned flour); 1 tablespoon white pepper (for seasoned flour); 1 teaspoon black pepper (for seasoned flour); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for seasoned flour); 1 teaspoon onion powder (for seasoned flour); ½ cup all-purpose flour (for wet batter); 1 large egg (for wet batter); 1 cup ice-cold sparkling water (for wet batter); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for honey butter sauce); 2 tablespoons honey (local if possible for best flavor); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for honey butter sauce); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for honey butter sauce); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for initial dusting); Neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

Jump to Recipe

Honey Butter Fried Chicken is more than just dinner—it’s a warm hug on a plate. The crispy chicken tenders, drizzled with a sweet and buttery sauce, create a delightful harmony of flavors that bring everyone to the table with a smile. It’s comfort food at its finest.

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. Whether you need a quick solution for a hectic weeknight or a dish that’s sure to impress, this recipe fits the bill. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Fried Chicken

This Honey Butter Fried Chicken is a game-changer for busy families. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crispy chicken and sweet honey butter is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Quick & easy: Ready in just 45 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
Family favorite: A dish that pleases kids and adults alike.
Sweet & savory combo: Crispy chicken meets rich honey butter sauce.
Versatile: Great for dinner, parties, or casual weekend meals.

You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your loved ones will adore every bite!

Ingredients for Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

Honey Butter Fried Chicken best ingredients

Chicken tenders: These are the stars of the dish, tender and juicy, perfect for frying.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
White and black pepper: These spices add a subtle kick and depth to the seasoning mix.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that savory aroma and flavor.
Onion powder: It complements the garlic and adds a sweet, earthy note.
Ginger powder: This brings a warm, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with honey.
Cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference for a little heat.
All-purpose flour: Used in various stages, it creates a crispy coating on the chicken.
Egg: This binds the wet batter, giving it a rich texture.
Ice-cold sparkling water: The bubbles help create a light, airy batter that fries up beautifully.
Unsalted butter: The base for the honey butter sauce, adding richness.
Honey: This sweetener is the star of the sauce, bringing a delightful sweetness.
Granulated sugar: It enhances the sweetness of the honey and helps with caramelization.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor that balances the sweetness.
Neutral oil: For frying, choose vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best results.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Marinate the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses flavor into every bite. Start by combining the chicken tenders with kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This not only enhances the taste but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. Trust me, this step is worth the wait!

Prepare the Seasoned Flour

Next, it’s time to prepare the seasoned flour, which is key to achieving that crispy coating. In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This blend will create a flavorful crust that complements the chicken perfectly. Make sure to whisk it well to combine all the spices evenly. This seasoned flour is what gives your Honey Butter Fried Chicken its signature crunch and taste!

Make the Wet Batter

Now, let’s create the wet batter that will give the chicken its light and airy texture. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, egg, and ice-cold sparkling water until smooth. The sparkling water is the secret ingredient here; it adds bubbles that help the batter puff up while frying. This step is essential for that perfect crunch. Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth batter will coat the chicken evenly and beautifully.

Heat the Oil

Heating the oil to the right temperature is vital for frying. In a deep pan or fryer, heat your neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside and remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. The right temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.

Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is ready, it’s time to fry the chicken! Start by dusting the marinated chicken tenders with the initial dusting flour. Then, dip each piece into the wet batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels. This step is where the magic happens!

Prepare the Honey Butter Sauce

While the chicken is frying, let’s whip up the honey butter sauce that takes this dish to the next level. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in honey, granulated sugar, and soy sauce until well combined. This sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, enhancing the flavor of the fried chicken. Drizzle it generously over the chicken or toss the pieces in the sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness!

Serve the Chicken

Now that your Honey Butter Fried Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve! Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a platter and drizzle the honey butter sauce over the top. For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Your family will be lining up for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the dinner table!

Tips for Success

Always marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F for perfect frying.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve crispiness.
Let the fried chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Equipment Needed

Deep pan or fryer: A heavy-bottomed pot works well if you don’t have a fryer.
Thermometer: A candy or frying thermometer ensures the oil is at the right temperature.
Mixing bowls: Use various sizes for marinating and mixing.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the chicken from the oil.
Paper towels: Essential for draining excess oil after frying.

Variations

Spicy Honey Butter Fried Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
Herb-Infused Honey Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the honey butter sauce for a fragrant twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Honey Mustard Variation: Replace honey with honey mustard in the sauce for a tangy flavor profile.
Oven-Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy.
Complement with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette.
Enjoy with sweet iced tea or lemonade for a delightful drink.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

FAQs about Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Can I make Honey Butter Fried Chicken ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Fry it right before serving for that crispy texture everyone loves!

What can I serve with Honey Butter Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like creamy coleslaw, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a light green salad. You can also enjoy it with sweet iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own tenders. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as thicker pieces may take a bit longer to cook through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Honey Butter Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy coating!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

Making Honey Butter Fried Chicken is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family savor each crispy, sweet bite fills my heart with warmth. This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings everyone together, making even the busiest days feel special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious journey of cooking. Trust me, your loved ones will thank you for it!

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