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Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Spicy Honey Drizzle

A delightful Southern fried chicken recipe, marinated in buttermilk for tenderness, with a spicy honey drizzle that adds a sweet and savory touch.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs and drumsticks Bone-in pieces for juiciness and flavor.
  • 2 cups buttermilk Makes chicken tender and flavorful.
  • 1 tsp hot sauce Optional; for extra heat.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For the crunchy coating.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 tsp paprika For smokiness and color.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust for spice preference.
  • 1 tsp salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds gentle warmth.
  • vegetable oil for frying Needed to achieve golden crispiness.

For the Spicy Honey Drizzle

  • 1/4 cup honey Sweetens the chicken.
  • 1 tsp hot sauce Adjust to taste for heat.
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes Optional for extra spice.

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

Prepare the Coating

  • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Coat the Chicken

  • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, let excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Press firmly for an even coating.

Heat the Oil

  • In a deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to fill about 1-2 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Fry the Chicken

  • Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Drain the Chicken

  • Transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess oil.

Make the Spicy Honey Drizzle

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until smooth.

Serve

  • Drizzle spicy honey over the fried chicken just before serving and pair with Southern sides.

Notes

Double-dip for extra crispiness if desired. Adjust spiciness to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10g
Keyword Buttermilk Chicken, Comfort Food, fried chicken, Southern Recipe, Spicy Honey Drizzle
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