Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits – Crispy, Buttery & Spicy Perfection

There is something truly special about a meal that combines crispy fried chicken, warm flaky biscuits, and a sweet yet spicy drizzle of hot honey. This dish brings together bold flavors and contrasting textures in a way that makes each bite an experience. When you take a bite, you get the buttery richness of the biscuit, the satisfying crunch of the golden-fried chicken, and the sticky-sweet heat of the honey glaze. It is comfort food at its finest.

Hot honey chicken biscuits are a staple in the South, but their popularity has spread far beyond regional borders. Many fast-food chains offer their own versions, but nothing compares to a homemade hot honey chicken biscuit. The homemade approach allows for better-quality ingredients, more control over the spice level, and the ability to customize each element to personal preference. Unlike the store-bought or fast-food versions, which can be greasy or overly processed, this homemade recipe delivers a balance of textures and flavors that feel indulgent but still fresh and satisfying.

What makes this recipe so special is the combination of simplicity and decadence. Each component—the biscuit, the fried chicken, and the hot honey—is relatively easy to prepare, yet when they come together, they create a dish that feels gourmet. The biscuits are made with real butter and buttermilk, ensuring that they turn out soft, tender, and full of flavor. The fried chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and double-dredged to achieve a perfect crispy crust. The hot honey, infused with red pepper flakes and apple cider vinegar, provides the ideal finishing touch, adding both sweetness and heat to the dish.

This dish is perfect for a wide range of occasions. It makes for a fantastic brunch item, offering a hearty start to the day. It is also great for game day, when you want to serve something both comforting and exciting. Whether it is for a special breakfast, a family meal, or just a craving for something delicious, these hot honey chicken biscuits will never disappoint.

If you have never made homemade biscuits before, or if frying chicken seems intimidating, there is no need to worry. This recipe breaks everything down into simple steps, making it approachable even for beginners. With a few helpful tips and techniques, you will be able to achieve the perfect crispy chicken and the flakiest biscuits every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this hot honey chicken biscuit recipe, and once you try it, you may find yourself making it again and again. One of the best things about this dish is how well it balances flavors. The fried chicken is rich and savory, the biscuits are buttery and tender, and the hot honey ties everything together with its mix of sweetness and heat. This balance keeps each bite interesting and satisfying.

Another great reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. The level of spiciness can be easily adjusted by changing the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the spice, or if you love heat, you can increase it for an extra fiery kick. You can also customize the biscuits by adding a bit of honey or cheese to the dough for a unique twist.

The texture contrast in this dish is another highlight. The crispy coating on the fried chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the biscuits offer a soft, fluffy texture that complements the chicken perfectly. The hot honey, with its smooth, sticky consistency, adds yet another dimension to the dish.

This recipe is also ideal for meal prep. While it is best enjoyed fresh, the biscuits and chicken can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. The biscuits freeze well, and the fried chicken can be reheated without losing its crunch. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to prepare a batch in advance for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is that it is made entirely from scratch. While store-bought biscuits and frozen fried chicken may be convenient, they cannot compare to the flavor and texture of homemade versions. Making everything from scratch allows for better control over the ingredients, ensuring that the dish is free from unnecessary preservatives or additives.

Health Benefits

Although this dish is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some surprising health benefits when made with high-quality ingredients and eaten in moderation. One of the main nutritional benefits comes from the chicken, which is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it also helps keep you feeling full for longer. Using skinless chicken breast or tenders can make the meal even leaner while still keeping it delicious.

Honey, which is the key ingredient in the hot honey glaze, is packed with antioxidants and has natural antibacterial properties. Unlike processed sugar, honey offers trace minerals and can help support the immune system. While it is still a source of natural sugar, when used in moderation, it can be a healthier alternative to refined sweeteners.

Buttermilk, a key ingredient in the biscuits, provides probiotics that promote gut health and aid digestion. It also adds moisture to the biscuits without requiring excess fat. Additionally, when paired with baking soda and baking powder, buttermilk helps create the perfect light and fluffy biscuit texture.

Another benefit comes from the red pepper flakes used in the hot honey. Spicy foods contain capsaicin, which has been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat burning. Capsaicin can also help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

By making this dish at home, you can ensure that the oil used for frying is fresh and of high quality. Many fast-food restaurants use oils that are repeatedly heated, leading to the formation of unhealthy trans fats. By using fresh, high-quality oil, you can minimize the presence of harmful compounds while still achieving crispy, delicious fried chicken.

Although this is not a low-calorie meal, its combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates makes it a well-balanced dish when eaten in moderation. Pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad can help balance out the meal and provide additional vitamins and nutrients.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe takes about one hour from start to finish, making it a manageable dish to prepare even on a busy day. The biscuits can be made ahead of time, and the hot honey can be stored for later use, cutting down on prep time for future meals.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 biscuits with fried chicken
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 26g

Ingredients List

The Fried Chicken:

• 1 ½ to 2 pounds chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 large egg plus 2 tablespoons water (beaten)
• Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

The Buttermilk Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter (cubed or grated)
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

For the Hot Honey:

• 1 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken

1. Heat about two inches of oil in a large pot over medium heat until it reaches 365-375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. In another dish, whisk together egg and water.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and back into the flour mixture for a second coat.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for eight to ten minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

 2: Make the Biscuits

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to half-inch thickness, fold it over itself, and repeat this process two more times.
5. Cut into biscuits using a round cutter and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for fifteen to seventeen minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter after baking.

 3: Make the Hot Honey

1. In a saucepan, warm honey and red pepper flakes over low heat.
2. Stir in apple cider vinegar and let it cool before using.

 4: Assemble the Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits

1. Once the biscuits have slightly cooled, carefully slice each biscuit in half using a serrated knife.
2. Place a crispy fried chicken tender on the bottom half of each biscuit.
3. Generously drizzle the hot honey over the fried chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the sweet and spicy glaze.
4. Optionally, add a few pickle slices on top of the chicken for an extra layer of tangy crunch.
5. Place the top half of the biscuit over the chicken and gently press down to hold everything together.
6. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve

Hot honey chicken biscuits are best served fresh, warm, and with a few thoughtfully paired sides. Because this dish is rich and indulgent, serving it with lighter sides can help create a well-balanced meal. There are many ways to present and enjoy these biscuits, whether as a sit-down brunch, a grab-and-go meal, or a hearty dinner.

Classic Brunch or Breakfast Spread

• Pair the biscuits with scrambled eggs or a soft, cheesy omelet to round out the meal.
• Add a side of crispy turkey bacon or beef sausage for extra protein and flavor.
• Serve with fresh fruit such as berries, orange slices, or a simple fruit salad to provide a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a dollop of extra honey or butter on the side for those who want to enhance the richness of their biscuit.

Game Day or Party Platter

• Make mini versions of these biscuits for easy snacking at a party. Simply use a smaller biscuit cutter and slice the chicken into smaller pieces before frying.
• Serve with a side of coleslaw to provide a crunchy and tangy contrast to the richness of the biscuits.
• Offer a dipping sauce station with extra hot honey, spicy mayo, or homemade honey mustard for extra layers of flavor.
• Set up a DIY biscuit bar where guests can add their favorite toppings such as pickles, cheese, or extra honey.

Dinner Option

• Serve the biscuits alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the heaviness of the meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a satisfying yet wholesome side dish.
• Offer mashed potatoes or a baked potato with a drizzle of honey butter for a Southern-inspired dinner.

Pairing Suggestions

Hot honey chicken biscuits have a bold flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of drinks and sides. Depending on the occasion, you can enhance the meal with complementary beverages and side dishes.

Best Drinks to Pair

• Sweet Tea – A classic Southern beverage that provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the hot honey.
• Fresh Lemonade – The tartness of lemonade balances the richness of the fried chicken and buttery biscuits.
• Iced Coffee or Cold Brew – The deep, roasted flavors of coffee complement the sweet and spicy notes of the dish.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus – If you want something light, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon adds a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes That Work Well

• Coleslaw – A crisp, tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the honey glaze in the dish.
• Crispy Hash Browns or Home Fries – These add an extra level of crunch and heartiness to the meal.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the biscuits and fried chicken.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Hot honey chicken biscuits taste best when served fresh, but they can also be stored for later use if you plan ahead. Proper storage ensures that the biscuits remain flaky, the chicken stays crispy, and the flavors remain intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Biscuits: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Fried Chicken: Place cooled fried chicken pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To keep them from becoming soggy, store them on a paper towel-lined plate.
• Hot Honey: Store the hot honey in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to two weeks. Shake or stir before using if the ingredients separate.

Freezing Instructions

• Biscuits: Wrap individual biscuits in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Fried Chicken: Arrange the fried chicken pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
• Hot Honey: Freezing is not recommended for honey-based sauces, as it can alter the texture. Instead, store it in a cool, dry place.

Reheating Instructions

• Biscuits: To restore their flakiness, warm biscuits in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
• Fried Chicken: To keep the crispiness, reheat fried chicken in an oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes. For an even crispier texture, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Hot Honey: If the honey thickens too much, warm it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling over the biscuits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure that your hot honey chicken biscuits turn out perfect every time.

Overcrowding the Frying Pan

When frying the chicken, it is important to give each piece enough space. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which can result in greasy, soggy chicken instead of crispy, golden-brown perfection.

Using Warm Butter in the Biscuits

Cold butter is essential for creating flaky layers in the biscuits. If the butter is too warm, the biscuits will be dense instead of light and fluffy. Chilling the butter and even freezing it for a few minutes before incorporating it into the dough can help.

Skipping the Double Dredge on the Chicken

A single coating of flour will not provide the same level of crunch as a double dredge. By dipping the chicken in flour, then egg wash, and then flour again, you create an extra crispy crust that stays crunchy even after being drizzled with hot honey.

Frying at the Wrong Temperature

If the oil is too hot, the outside of the chicken will burn before the inside is cooked. If it is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Using a thermometer ensures that the oil stays between 365-375°F for the perfect fry.

Not Letting the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes after frying helps keep the crust crispy while allowing the juices to redistribute inside the chicken, making it extra tender.

Pro Tips

• For extra flaky biscuits, fold and roll the dough multiple times before cutting out the biscuits.
• Let the biscuit dough rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking to allow the butter to firm up, which results in a better texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• If you want an even crispier coating on the chicken, use cornstarch in the flour mixture for a lighter, crunchier crust.
• Let the hot honey sit for at least 10 minutes before using it so the flavors can meld together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought biscuits instead of making them from scratch?

Yes, but homemade biscuits have a much better texture and flavor. If you use store-bought biscuits, choose high-quality ones and bake them fresh.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the biscuits and fried chicken in advance and reheat them when ready to serve. The hot honey can also be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need, it is time to make your own hot honey chicken biscuits. Try this recipe, experiment with different variations, and enjoy every delicious bite. If you make this dish, share your experience and let others know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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