Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

The Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds craving for more. The crispy fried chicken, coated in a spicy and sweet hot honey sauce, is nestled between two soft buns, creating a mouthwatering sandwich that is ideal for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving a satisfying meal. Whether you’re a fan of heat, sweetness, or a perfect mix of both, this sandwich has it all. With its crispy golden crust, juicy chicken, and the punch of hot honey, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Game day snacks
• Quick and satisfying lunch
• Fans of spicy and sweet flavor combinations
• Halal-friendly chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Here’s why the Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich will become your go-to meal:

• Crispy Fried Chicken: The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Spicy and Sweet Flavor: The hot honey sauce offers a spicy kick, while the honey adds a natural sweetness, making the sandwich a delightful blend of heat and sweetness.
• Easy to Make: While the sandwich may sound gourmet, it’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. The homemade spicy hot honey sauce is simple yet impactful.
• Customizable: The sandwich is fully customizable. You can tweak the spice level, add toppings like pickles or lettuce, or even change the bread to suit your preference.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is halal as it uses chicken and avoids pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol, making it a perfect choice for those following a halal diet.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich:

Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Spicy Hot Honey Sauce:

• ½ cup honey (preferably raw or organic)
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to heat preference, such as Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• A pinch of salt

Sandwich:

• 4 soft sandwich buns (preferably brioche or potato buns)
• Pickles (optional, for crunch and acidity)
• Lettuce or slaw (optional, for freshness)

Ingredient Highlights for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich Recipe

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, offering a tender and juicy bite while staying crispy on the outside. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option.
• Hot Honey Sauce: The blend of honey and hot sauce creates the perfect spicy-sweet balance that will make your taste buds dance. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the heat level to your liking.
• Pickles and Lettuce: These are optional, but they add a layer of crunch and a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures it stays tender and juicy after frying, while also helping the coating adhere perfectly.

Step-by-Step

Instructions for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich:

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken breasts to infuse flavor and ensure they remain juicy during frying.

1. Place the chicken breasts in a bowl or resealable bag.
2. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Seal and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

2. Prepare the Dredging Station

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the breading for the crispy coating.

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
3. Set up your dredging station by arranging the bowls with the egg mixture and seasoned flour mixture side by side.

3. Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to coat it for frying.

1. Remove each chicken breast from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off.
2. Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing down slightly to ensure an even coating.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a plate while you prepare the oil.

4. Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to cover the chicken partially when frying.

1. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
2. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Make the Spicy Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is frying, prepare the spicy hot honey sauce.

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Stir until the mixture is heated through and slightly bubbly.
3. Add the butter and stir until melted and well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.

6. Assemble the Sandwiches

To assemble the Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich:

1. Lightly toast the sandwich buns on a skillet or in the oven until golden brown.
2. Spread a little hot honey sauce on the bottom bun (optional: you can also add pickles or lettuce at this point).
3. Place the crispy chicken breast on top of the bottom bun.
4. Drizzle more of the spicy hot honey sauce over the chicken.
5. Top with pickles, lettuce, or slaw for added crunch and freshness.
6. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

How to Serve Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

This sandwich can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Fries: Serve with crispy fries or potato wedges on the side for a classic fast-food-style meal.
• With Coleslaw: Pair it with a tangy coleslaw to balance the spice and sweetness.
• For Game Day: Serve it on a platter with other snacks like chips, wings, or onion rings.
• As a Meal Prep: You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble the sandwiches when ready to serve.

Additional Tips for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Here are some tips to make your Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich even better:

• Adjust the Spice: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading and the hot sauce in the honey sauce.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the egg and flour mixture a second time before frying.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to ensure the juices redistribute and the coating stays crispy.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: For a more traditional fried chicken experience, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, just adjust the frying time accordingly.

Recipe Variations for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Here are a few fun variations you can try:

1. Crispy Chicken Tenders Sandwich: Instead of whole breasts, use crispy chicken tenders for a fun twist.
2. Lemon-Honey Chicken Sandwich: Swap the hot sauce for lemon zest and lemon juice for a zesty and sweet flavor.
3. Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Avocado: Add sliced avocado to the sandwich for a creamy contrast to the spicy chicken.
4. Buffalo Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich: Combine hot honey with classic buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy sandwich.
5. Vegetarian Version: Use a crispy plant-based chicken patty to make a vegetarian-friendly sandwich.

Freezing and Storage for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken patties for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Storage: Store the assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the buns from getting soggy, store the hot honey sauce separately and assemble the sandwich just before eating.

Special Equipment for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Here are some special equipment items you might need to make:

1. Deep Fryer or Skillet: To fry the chicken to crispy perfection.
2. Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
3. Shallow Bowls: For setting up the dredging station.
4. Tongs: For safely placing and flipping the chicken in the hot oil.
5. Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried chicken.

FAQ Section about Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work well and will result in a juicier sandwich.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, use a dairy-free buttermilk substitute (like almond milk mixed with lemon juice) and omit the butter in the sauce, replacing it with a dairy-free alternative.
3. How can I make the sandwich less spicy? Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading and use a mild hot sauce for the sauce.
4. Can I make this sandwich gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Can I prepare the chicken in advance? Yes, you can fry the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven to crisp it back up.

Print

Conclusion for Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich

The Spicy Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful, satisfying, and irresistible meal that combines heat, sweetness, and crunch in every bite. This halal recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or any occasion that calls for a delicious, comforting meal. Whether you prefer your sandwiches mild or with a spicy kick, this recipe is customizable to fit your taste. With its crispy chicken, hot honey sauce, and soft buns, this sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.