Crispy Honey Butter Fried Chickenn is a delightful treat that combines the crunch of double-fried chicken tenders with a sweet, buttery glaze that has a hint of soy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or just a fun weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. With its addictively crispy exterior and rich flavor, Honey Butter Fried Chickenn offers a unique twist on classic fried chicken that you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory experience that’s truly unforgettable.
- Crispy Texture: Double frying ensures an ultra-crispy crust that stays crunchy even after being coated in sauce.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any hassle.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in sandwich form for a fun twist on dinner.
- Perfect for Sharing: These tenders are great for gatherings and parties where everyone loves finger food.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results when making Honey Butter Fried Chickenn, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wire rack
- Thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution, crucial for frying without burning the chicken.
- Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off after frying while keeping the chicken crispy.
- Thermometer: Ensures your oil reaches the perfect frying temperature for optimal crispiness.
Ingredients
Crispy double-fried chicken tenders coated in a sweet, buttery sauce with hints of soy – a Korean-inspired twist on classic chicken tenders that’s totally addictive.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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)
For Dredging and Frying
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup ice-cold sparkling water (soda water works great)
- Neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Honey Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey (local if possible for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
For Initial Dusting
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken tenders with kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands to ensure each tender is well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations
Set up your dredging stations in a row:
1. First station: A bowl with 1 cup of plain all-purpose flour.
2. Second station: Make your wet batter by whisking together ½ cup flour, the egg, and ice-cold sparkling water until smooth.
3. Third station: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for your seasoned flour mixture.
Step 3: Prepare Seasoned Flour Mixture
Add 1 tablespoon of sparkling water to your seasoned flour mixture. Use your fingers to rub the water into the flour until small clumps form. These clumps will stick to the chicken and create extra crispy bits when fried – the secret to incredible fried chicken texture!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each marinated chicken tender:
1. First dust it in plain flour; shake off any excess.
2. Dip it into wet batter ensuring it’s fully coated; allow excess batter to drip off.
3. Place it in seasoned flour and press firmly until completely coated. Set aside on a tray and repeat with all tenders.
Step 5: Rest Before Frying
Let the coated chicken tenders rest on the tray for about 10 minutes while you heat your oil. This helps ensure better adhesion of coating during frying.
Step 6: Heat Oil & Fry First Batch
Fill a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with about 2 inches of neutral oil and heat to 350°F (use thermometer). Working in small batches:
1. Gently lower 3-4 tenders into hot oil.
2. Fry for 4-5 minutes until lightly golden; turn occasionally.
3. Remove and place on wire rack set over baking sheet.
Step 7: Re-Fry for Extra Crispiness
Once all tenders have had their first fry:
1. Bring oil back to 350°F.
2. Re-fry each tender for an additional 1-2 minutes until they reach deeper golden color and become extra crispy.
3. Transfer back to wire rack; sprinkle with salt while hot.
Step 8: Make Honey Butter Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter; once melted add honey, sugar, and soy sauce.
2. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves and sauce bubbles slightly.
3. Cook for another minute until sauce thickens enough to coat back of spoon.
Step 9: Coat Chicken Tenders
You can either brush honey butter sauce over fried chicken tenders or toss them directly in sauce quickly maintaining as much crispiness as possible. For best results serve immediately while still warm and ultra-crispy!
How to Serve Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
Serving Honey Butter Fried Chickenn is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some tasty suggestions to elevate your dish.
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple mix of leafy greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw complement the sweet, buttery flavors perfectly.
Offer Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Mayo: A blend of mayonnaise and Sriracha adds a creamy kick that pairs well with the crispy chicken.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce brings a fruity heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serve with Rice or Noodles
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light flavor of jasmine rice absorbs the honey butter sauce beautifully.
- Noodle Stir-Fry: Tossed noodles with vegetables can create a hearty meal alongside the tenders.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and color, making your dish more appealing.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
To achieve the ultimate Honey Butter Fried Chickenn, follow these tips for perfect results every time.
- Marinate Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Use Sparkling Water: The carbonation in sparkling water helps create an extra crispy batter when frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 350°F ensures even frying and prevents greasy chicken.
- Double Fry for Crispiness: Frying twice gives your chicken an unbeatable crunchy texture that you won’t want to miss.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoying the chicken while it’s hot keeps it crispy and delicious.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorites to personalize the flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
To complete your meal, serve Honey Butter Fried Chickenn with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your dining experience and make it memorable.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a fresh touch to your plate.
- Fried Rice: A quick fried rice dish loaded with vegetables complements the Korean-inspired theme.
- Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy pickles or kimchi offer a tangy contrast to the sweet chicken.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy mac salad provides a cool counterbalance to hot, crispy chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds color and health benefits to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Honey Butter Fried Chickenn can be a breeze, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for achieving perfect results.
- Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate reduces flavor. Ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum taste.
- Not using cold sparkling water: Using warm water can lead to a soggy batter. Always use ice-cold sparkling water to help create a light and crispy coating.
- Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches to maintain the right temperature for extra crispiness.
- Neglecting the resting period: Skipping the resting time before frying can cause the coating to fall off. Let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes for better adherence during cooking.
- Ignoring seasoning in every layer: Failing to season each stage of preparation can result in bland chicken. Be sure to season both the marinade and flour mixtures thoroughly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Honey Butter Fried Chickenn can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
- Allow fried chicken to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container; it can last up to 2 months.
Reheating Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, noting that this method may soften the crust.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Honey Butter Fried Chickenn gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends specifically designed for frying, ensuring you follow the same steps as outlined in the recipe.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of tenders if you prefer different cuts of meat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is the best way to serve Honey Butter Fried Chickenn?
Serve it fresh and hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces or over rice for a delicious meal.
How do I store leftover Honey Butter Fried Chickenn?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
What can I customize in this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for unique flavors that suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Honey Butter Fried Chickenn is not just another chicken dish; it’s a delightful blend of sweetness and crunch that’s sure to impress any palate. Its versatility allows for endless customization—whether you prefer adding spices or adjusting sweetness levels, this recipe invites creativity. Don’t hesitate; try making it today!
SEO Information
Crispy Honey Butter Fried Chickenn
Crispy Honey Butter Fried Chickenn is a mouthwatering delight that brings together the irresistible crunch of double-fried chicken tenders coated in a sweet, buttery glaze with hints of soy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, from game day to family dinners, this dish promises to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. With its addictive crispy exterior and rich flavors, Honey Butter Fried Chickenn is a unique twist on the classic fried chicken recipe that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup ice-cold sparkling water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- ginger powder
- cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Set up three dredging stations: plain flour, wet batter (flour, egg, sparkling water), and seasoned flour.
- Coat each tender first in plain flour, then in wet batter, and finally in seasoned flour.
- Allow coated tenders to rest while heating oil to 350°F.
- Fry tenders in batches until golden brown; re-fry for extra crispiness.
- Prepare the honey butter sauce by melting butter and mixing with honey and soy sauce.
- Coat fried tenders in sauce or serve it on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For extra crunch, allow the chicken to rest before frying. Substitute gluten-free flour as needed. Experiment with different spices for a personalized flavor.