Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits

Name: Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ to 2 pounds chicken tenders (or 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips); 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 + 2 tablespoons water, beaten; Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter, cubed; ¾ cup buttermilk; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup honey; 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There is something undeniably comforting about crispy fried chicken paired with warm, buttery biscuits. It’s a Southern classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate. My first experience with hot honey chicken biscuits was during a road trip through the South, where a small roadside diner served up the most mouthwatering biscuit sandwich I had ever tasted. The combination of crunchy, juicy chicken, soft biscuits, and a drizzle of sweet-spicy honey was unforgettable.

The best part? You don’t need to travel far or be a pro in the kitchen to enjoy this indulgence. This recipe is perfect for beginners because it uses simple, everyday ingredients and requires just a bit of patience to achieve that golden, crispy chicken and fluffy biscuit perfection. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for a quick and healthy meal—baking the biscuits from scratch and using fresh ingredients keeps it wholesome.

Why This Recipe is Special

Hot honey chicken biscuits bring together three elements that make them truly irresistible:

Crispy Fried Chicken: Lightly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, the chicken is crunchy on the outside and juicy inside.
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft, buttery, and slightly crisp on the edges, homemade biscuits elevate this dish beyond anything store-bought.
Sweet & Spicy Hot Honey: The perfect drizzle of warm honey with a kick of heat balances the rich, savory flavors beautifully.

This recipe is beginner-friendly, and you can even make parts of it ahead of time for a quick weekday treat or an impressive brunch dish.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Fried Chicken

Chicken – Tender chicken strips or boneless thighs work best for a juicy bite.
Flour & Seasonings – Flour creates the crispy coating, while salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika add flavor.

Egg Wash – Helps the coating stick for a crispier texture.
Oil – Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying.

Ingredient Substitutions: Try using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or swap chicken tenders for boneless thighs for a richer flavor.

For the Buttermilk Biscuits

Flour, Baking Powder, and Baking Soda – These help create the perfect light, fluffy texture.
Butter – Cold butter ensures flaky layers.
Buttermilk – Adds a slight tang and softens the dough.

Ingredient Substitutions: No buttermilk? Mix milk with a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute.

For the Hot Honey

Honey – The base of the drizzle, providing sweetness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances flavors with a touch of acidity.

Ingredient Substitutions: Adjust spice levels by swapping red pepper flakes with cayenne powder or a few drops of hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another dish, whisk the egg with a little water. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg wash, then dredge it back in the flour.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 365°F (185°C). To test readiness, drop a small pinch of flour—if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough. Fry the chicken in batches, about 8-10 minutes per side, until golden brown. Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the buttermilk until a dough forms.

On a floured surface, pat the dough into a rectangle, fold it over itself, and repeat this process twice more. Cut out biscuits using a round cutter, place them on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-17 minutes, until golden brown. Brush with melted butter when done.

Step 4: Prepare the Hot Honey
In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the honey and red pepper flakes. Stir in apple cider vinegar and let it cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice a biscuit in half, place a piece of fried chicken inside, drizzle with hot honey, and add pickles for extra tang. Serve warm and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

For extra crispy chicken, double-dip in the flour coating.

No deep fryer? Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution.
Shortcut for biscuits: If short on time, use refrigerated biscuit dough, but homemade ones are worth the effort.
Make-ahead tip: Fried chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F to keep it crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or mac and cheese for a complete Southern meal.
Add a refreshing drink like iced lemonade or sweet tea to balance the heat of the honey drizzle.
Leftovers? Store biscuits and fried chicken separately. Reheat biscuits in the oven for fluffiness and chicken in an air fryer or oven to keep it crispy.

Now that you have all the steps, it’s time to bring this easy sheet pan dinner (or stovetop masterpiece) to life in your kitchen! Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a weekend brunch, hot honey chicken biscuits are guaranteed to impress.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Did you make any fun twists? Would you add extra spice or a different type of honey? I’d love to hear your experience!

Happy cooking!

FAQ About Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits

Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the biscuits up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes before serving.

How do I keep the fried chicken crispy?

To maintain crispiness, place the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of a paper towel while cooling. If reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 375°F to restore the crunch.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the red pepper flakes in the hot honey or replace them with a drizzle of plain honey for a milder, sweet-only flavor.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! Coat the chicken as directed, then place it on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, spray lightly with oil before baking.

More Relevant Recipes

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli