As I was wandering through a quaint Southern market, the sweet aroma of honey and spices wafted through the air, making my heart skip a beat. It was the perfect nudge to create one of my all-time favorites: Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits. This recipe invites you into the world of flaky, buttery biscuits cradling crispy fried chicken tenders, all drizzled with a blissful hot honey glaze. These biscuits are not only a delightful treat but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic option for family dinners or picnics. Whether you’re a home chef or just tired of fast food, the combination of crispy chicken and sweet-spicy honey will elevate your meal to new heights. Ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Biscuits Irresistible?
Comforting Flavors: Each bite of these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits offers a warm embrace of Southern comfort, pairing crispy chicken with sweet and spicy honey for a flavor explosion.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef! The straightforward preparation of both the chicken and biscuits means anyone can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for all ages, these biscuits are sure to please picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings.
Versatile Treat: Whether served for brunch or as a delightful dinner option, these biscuits adapt beautifully to any occasion. Try pairing them with a refreshing side like cold lemonade to enhance your meal!
Unique Snack Option: Different from boring fast food, these homemade biscuits provide both a satisfying crunch and a soft texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Make Ahead: Enjoy quick meal planning! You can prepare components in advance and reheat them for a fast, delightful dinner that tastes freshly made.
Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits Ingredients
A delightful blend of flavors!
For the Fried Chicken
- Chicken Tenders – Juicy protein source; boneless skinless chicken breasts can work in a pinch!
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust if using table salt.
- Black Pepper – Adds spicy notes; freshly ground offers the best taste.
- Garlic Powder – Introduces savory depth; fresh minced garlic is a great substitute.
- Smoked Paprika – This adds smokiness and color; regular paprika can be swapped, but flavors differ.
- Egg and Water Mixture – Binds the coating; use a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Vegetable Oil (Canola or Peanut) – Essential for frying; avocado oil is a healthier alternative.
For the Biscuits
- Baking Powder – Provides leavening; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Baking Soda – Aiding in fluffiness; combine with baking powder for optimal texture.
- Salt – Adds flavor; use the same as above.
- Cold Butter – Creates flakiness in biscuits; margarine can be used for dairy-free needs.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; milk with a splash of vinegar can substitute well.
For the Hot Honey Drizzle
- Honey – The star ingredient for the hot honey sauce; feel free to substitute with maple syrup, though the flavor changes!
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds the necessary heat to the honey; adjust for your spice preference.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweetness perfectly; lemon juice can be a good alternative.
These Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits promise to be a comforting Southern delight for your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
Step 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken
Begin by heating vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 365-375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Take each chicken tender, dredge in the flour mixture, dip into the egg and water mixture, and coat again in the flour. Fry the chicken in batches for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown and crispy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat it into a rectangular shape, fold it several times to create layers, and cut out biscuits. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes. This infuses the honey with a spicy kick. Afterward, remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar, balancing the sweetness with a tangy note. Set the hot honey aside to cool slightly while you finish assembling the biscuits.
Step 4: Assemble the Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
Once the biscuits are baked and slightly cooled, carefully split them in half. Place a crispy fried chicken tender on the bottom half of each biscuit. Generously drizzle the hot honey over the chicken, allowing it to soak into the biscuit. Top with the other half of the biscuit and serve warm. For a delightful accompaniment, consider adding pickles on the side to enhance the flavors of your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
Transform your delicious Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits into a cozy and hearty meal that your loved ones will savor.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy cabbage contrasts beautifully with the warm, crispy chicken, adding freshness to each bite.
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Spicy Pickles: Served on the side, these zesty bites provide a tang that cuts through the richness, elevating the entire dish.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries enhances the hot honey’s flavor profile, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
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Southern Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic and bacon, these beans bring a savory element to your table, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the honey.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty biscuits and chicken, cleansing the palate.
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Homemade Sweet Tea: A glass of this classic beverage completes your Southern meal, balancing the crispy chicken’s spiciness with its sweet notes.
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Mini Fruit Pies: Buttery and flaky desserts like mini peach or apple pies provide a sweet finish to round out your meal and entice diners to indulge even further.
Each of these pairings enhances the delightful flavors of your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits and creates a memorable dining experience filled with Southern charm!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken tenders in the spice mix and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor. Additionally, the hot honey can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat before drizzling over the biscuits. For the biscuits, prepare the dough and cut out shapes, then lay them on the baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. When ready to serve, bake the biscuits directly from the fridge, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort!
Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits Variations
Feel free to get creative and tweak these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits to make them uniquely yours. Let’s explore some fun and flavorful options to elevate your dish!
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Cheesy Biscuits: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese for a savory twist that adds creaminess to every bite. Imagine the gooey, melty goodness as you pull apart your biscuit!
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Spicy Varieties: Use your favorite hot sauce or spicy seasoning in the hot honey mix for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference, and your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out chicken for crispy fried mushrooms or tofu to reflect the same delightful textures. These alternatives provide a hearty bite while keeping the flavor profile vibrant.
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Herb-Infused Biscuits: Add fresh herbs like chives or rosemary to the biscuit dough for a fragrant lift. The aroma while baking will make your kitchen feel like a welcoming Southern home.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a touch of lemon zest into the hot honey for a bright, citrusy note. The sweetness and tang will create a refreshing balance that’s irresistible.
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Maple Variation: Replace honey in the hot honey sauce with pure maple syrup. This twist will lend a rich, earthy undertone while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Fruit-Filled Biscuits: Add a layer of peach or apple preserves between the biscuit halves for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken. This unexpected touch will surprise and delight your guests!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish! Embrace the adventure of gluten-free cooking without losing flavor or texture.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own unique variations. It’s all about creating something special that reflects your taste! If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying these biscuits with a side of cold lemonade for a classic Southern meal!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and biscuits separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled biscuits and fried chicken in airtight bags. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat biscuits in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for optimal texture. Chicken can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness.
Hot Honey Storage: Store unused hot honey in a glass jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using to restore its luscious drizzle.
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
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Oil Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at a consistent 365-375°F for perfectly crispy fried chicken; too cool and it’ll be greasy! Use a thermometer for accuracy.
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Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying chicken; it results in uneven cooking and soggy pieces. Frying in batches is key!
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Dough Handling: When making biscuits, handle the dough gently. Overworking can lead to tough biscuits instead of the desired flaky texture.
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Ultimate Buttermilk Substitute: Don’t have buttermilk? Mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar—let sit for a few minutes for a perfect substitute in your biscuits!
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Hot Honey Storage: Let your hot honey cool fully before transferring to a glass container; it can be stored in the refrigerator for later use—just reheat before drizzling!
Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits?
I recommend using chicken tenders for their juiciness and tenderness, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember that cutting them into thinner strips will help them cook evenly and reduce frying time!
How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best way to keep them?
Store any leftover chicken and biscuits separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents the biscuits from getting soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven to restore that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze the Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, place assembled biscuits in an airtight freezer bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for the best texture.
What should I do if my fried chicken turns out greasy?
If your fried chicken is greasy, it might be because the oil temperature was too low when frying. Make sure the oil is consistently between 365-375°F for that perfect crispiness. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan as this can drop the oil temperature and lead to sogginess. Frying in smaller batches is key to success!
Can I make the biscuits and chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and biscuits ahead of time, allowing them to cool completely before storing. Keep everything separate in the refrigerator and reheat when ready. If you’re making for a gathering, this can save you oodles of time, letting you enjoy the company of your guests.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
If you’re concerned about allergies, always check for gluten in the flour and possible cross-contamination if you’re using gluten-free options. For those with dairy sensitivities, substitute buttermilk with a mix of plant-based milk and vinegar. I often recommend a flax egg as a great vegan alternative for the egg in the coating!
Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits: Ultimate Southern Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Fried Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 365-375°F. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip into egg mixture, coat in flour again, and fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Buttermilk Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk until a sticky dough forms. Turn out onto a floured surface, pat into shape, fold to create layers, and cut out biscuits. Bake for 15-17 minutes until golden.
- Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in apple cider vinegar, and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits: Split the baked biscuits in half, place a fried chicken tender on the bottom half, drizzle with hot honey, top with the other half, and serve warm.
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