There’s something utterly satisfying about a hot honey crispy chicken sandwich. The blend of spicy honey flavors with the crunchy texture of the fried chicken sandwich has a way of tempting even the most cautious eater.
Seeing the sizzle and the golden-brown crust form on the crispy chicken as it fries is a delight for any cook who appreciates the art of cooking.
When I first came across the idea of a crispy hot honey chicken sandwich, I knew I had to try it myself. The key to achieving crispy perfection lies in the right combination of seasonings and cooking techniques.
Chicken sandwich recipes often call for ingredients like smoked paprika and garlic powder. These spices give the chicken a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey. Panko breadcrumbs can add an extra crunch, making every bite a satisfying experience.
What I love most about this spicy chicken sandwich is its versatility. It’s similar to a Nashville hot chicken sandwich but with a unique twist that makes it stand out.
Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or simply want a tasty meal, hot honey chicken sandwiches are a sure winner. When I serve this at home, it never fails to bring a smile to the faces around the table.
Why You Will Love Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich
I believe you’ll fall in love with the Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy, golden-brown exterior of the chicken contrasts with its tender, juicy inside.
The magic happens when this delicious chicken is coated in hot honey sauce, adding a delightful mix of heat and sweetness. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this sandwich delivers just the right amount.
Another reason I love this sandwich is the variety of toppings you can add. Whether it’s pickles, lettuce, or a creamy sauce, you can customize it to your liking. Served on a toasted bun, it’s an experience in every bite.
Making this sandwich at home allows you to control the ingredients and experiment with flavors, which makes it a versatile option for lunch or dinner. It’s satisfying and easy to prepare with simple steps that even beginners can follow confidently.
If you enjoy fried chicken, you will appreciate how this recipe elevates classic flavors with a twist. The contrast between spicy, sweet, and savory will make this sandwich a highlight of any meal.
How To Make Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich
I have found that making a Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich combines the perfect amount of sweetness and spice. With delicious chicken seasoned just right and a drizzle of hot honey sauce, this sandwich is hard to resist. Here’s how I make it from start to finish.
Ingredients
The first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients. For the chicken, I use chicken breasts or chicken thighs, coated with a mixture of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a bit of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
The chicken is then dipped in an egg and buttermilk mixture for a rich coating.
For the crispy coating, I prefer panko breadcrumbs mixed with spices like chili powder and black pepper. The sandwich is completed with hamburger buns or brioche burger buns, and of course, a good amount of hot honey.
I also add a pinch of kosher salt and some cornstarch into the mix for added crunch.
Instruments
I use a variety of kitchen tools to make the sandwich. To fry the chicken, I find a deep pan or a deep fryer suits best, filled with peanut oil or another cooking oil with a high smoke point.
You might also consider an air fryer if you’re going for a lighter version.
Other necessary tools include a shallow wide bowl or plate for the breadcrumb mixture, a mixing bowl for the eggs and buttermilk, and a baking sheet if you plan on baking instead.
For assembling the sandwich, tongs and a spatula help in handling hot items with ease.
Step By Step Instruction
To start, I coat the chicken cutlets in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every piece is covered. Next, the chicken is dipped into the buttermilk and egg mixture. Once well-coated, I press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture that usually contains granulated garlic and baking powder.
Then, heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or skillet to about 350°F. Fry the chicken until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
After frying, let the chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Finally, assemble the sandwich by placing the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, drizzling it with hot honey sauce for that spicy sweetness. Then, cover the chicken with the top bun and serve hot, sometimes with extra hot honey on the side for dipping.
Ingredient Substitute
When I make a Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich, I sometimes need to switch up the ingredients based on what I have at home or dietary needs. Here are some substitution ideas that work well:
1. Breadcrumbs or Cornflakes
To keep things gluten-free, I replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones. Cornflakes can also be swapped out for all-purpose flour if you prefer a different texture.
2. Buttermilk Brine
For the buttermilk marinade, I combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as an easy homemade substitute.
3. Chicken
If I run out of chicken breast, I like to use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
4. Hot Honey
Creating homemade hot honey is simple. I blend honey with red pepper flakes until it reaches the perfect level of spice. This mixture adds the signature sweet and spicy kick to the sandwich.
Feel free to experiment with these substitutes to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
What To Serve With Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich
When I serve my Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich, I know the sides are just as important. Here are some ideas to complete the meal:
- Coleslaw: Its cool crunch pairs perfectly with the spicy sweetness of the sandwich. You can use it as a side or even as a topping.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture works well with the crispiness of the chicken.
For those who love fresh and light sides, a Sweet Corn Salad with diced tomatoes and a bit of ranch dressing can do wonders. It’s vibrant and refreshing.
If you’re in the mood for more classic pairings, try adding pickles or dill pickle chips. These add a tangy crunch that complements the sandwich beautifully.
To add a bit of extra flavor, top with shredded lettuce like iceberg lettuce and tomatoes on a fresh hamburger bun. I also recommend adding pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice.
And if you’re looking for extra richness, mayonnaise or garlic mayo can be great additions to liven up the flavors.
How To Store Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich
When I want to save a Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich for later, I have a few simple steps. First, I make sure the sandwich is completely cool. This helps prevent sogginess caused by trapped steam.
Next, I wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the chicken crispy and the flavors fresh. For added protection, I might even use a layer of plastic wrap before the foil.
I store the wrapped sandwich in the refrigerator if I plan to eat it within a few days. If I need to keep it longer, I place it in the freezer where it can last for a couple of months.
When it’s time to enjoy the sandwich again, I prefer reheating it in the oven. I preheat to around 350°F and bake until heated through. This helps retain the crispiness of the chicken, unlike the microwave which can make it soggy.
For convenience, I’ve outlined these steps in a simple list:
- Cool the sandwich completely.
- Wrap in aluminum foil or use an airtight container.
- Refrigerate or freeze based on how long you plan to store it.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
Is Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich Healthy
When I think about a Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich, nutrition isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind. It’s more about the taste.
This sandwich packs a flavorful punch with its crispy texture and sweet-and-spicy hot honey sauce.
Let’s break it down. The chicken patty is fried, which means it might not be the best choice if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Frying adds extra fat and calories due to the oil used in cooking.
The brioche bun adds more carbohydrates and sugars. While delicious, it’s something to consider if you’re trying to cut down on carbs.
Using whole-grain or a lettuce wrap as an alternative could be healthier.
Adding vegetables like lettuce can boost the health factor by providing vitamins and fiber.
The sauce, often hot honey, contains sugar. To make it healthier, I might use less honey or replace it with a lower-sugar option.
Lean chicken breast is usually the main protein source in a Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich. It’s rich in protein and can be part of a balanced diet.
Baking instead of frying can reduce the fat content.
Here’s a quick list of possible changes to make this sandwich healthier:
- Use whole-grain or alternate buns.
- Bake instead of fry the chicken.
- Add more veggies.
- Use a low sugar sauce.
Nutrition Fact
When I look at the Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich, I want clear and simple nutrition facts. Here they are:
- Calories: About 700-1020 calories per serving, depending on the recipe.
- Fats: Usually ranges from 31g to 62g of fat.
- Carbohydrates: Generally 31g to 70g of carbs in one serving.
- Protein: Typically provides around 14g of protein.
The sandwich usually consists of a crispy fried chicken breast, coated in a spicy and sweet honey sauce. It’s served on a bun, which adds to the carbohydrate content.
The fat content is largely from the frying process and any additional spreads used in the sandwich.
This sandwich can quickly add up in calories and fat, but it also provides a decent amount of protein from the chicken.
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.
Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Equipment
- Deep fryer or deep pan
- Shallow wide bowl or plate
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs and spatula
- Baking sheet Optional
- Paper towels (for draining)
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- All-purpose flour
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper optional
- Egg
- Buttermilk
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Chili powder
- Black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Cornstarch optional, for extra crunch
- Peanut oil or cooking oil with a high smoke point
- Hot honey honey mixed with red pepper flakes
- Hamburger or brioche buns
- Pickles lettuce, or other desired toppings (optional)
Instructions
- Coat the chicken with a mixture of flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (optional), and salt.
- Dip chicken into an egg and buttermilk mixture.
- Press chicken into panko breadcrumbs mixed with chili powder and black pepper.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or skillet. Fry chicken until golden brown and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Drain chicken on paper towels.
- Assemble the sandwich with the crispy chicken, hot honey drizzle, and any additional toppings like pickles, lettuce, or mayo.
- Serve immediately, with extra hot honey on the side if desired
Notes
- Calories: 700-1020
- Fat: 31g – 62g
- Carbohydrates: 31g – 70g
- Protein: 14g
