There is something magical about the combination of crispy fried chicken, soft buttery biscuits, and a sticky, sweet-spicy drizzle of hot honey. This recipe for Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits brings together all these flavors in the most irresistible way. If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of savory, crunchy, and sweet heat, this dish is exactly what you need.
The first time I tried a hot honey chicken biscuit, it was at a small Southern-style eatery that specialized in comfort food with a modern twist. I was instantly hooked. The crispy, juicy fried chicken, paired with warm, flaky biscuits, was already delicious—but the real magic happened when that golden, slightly spicy honey drizzled down the sides, creating a bite that was equal parts indulgent and satisfying. I knew I had to recreate it at home, and after several attempts, I landed on a version that hits all the right notes.
This recipe is perfect for brunch, a weekend treat, or even a casual dinner. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it. Plus, the best part? You can customize the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you like just a hint of heat or an extra fiery kick, this hot honey chicken biscuit recipe has you covered.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your comfort food game, let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits, but here are the top ones that will make this recipe a favorite in your kitchen:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of buttery biscuits, crispy chicken, and sweet-spicy honey creates an unbeatable taste. Every bite is a mix of crunch, tenderness, and a little heat.
- Easy to Make at Home – You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated ingredients. This recipe uses pantry staples and can be made in your own kitchen without hassle.
- Customizable Heat Level – Whether you prefer a mild sweetness or a bold spicy kick, you can easily adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to match your spice preference.
- Great for Any Meal – These biscuits aren’t just for breakfast. They make a fantastic brunch, lunch, or even a fun weeknight dinner when you’re craving something indulgent and delicious.
- Crispy and Juicy Chicken – Thanks to the buttermilk marinade and the perfectly seasoned flour coating, the chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside while achieving that golden crunch on the outside.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prep the chicken and biscuits in advance, making this recipe great for hosting guests or meal planning.
No matter when or how you decide to enjoy these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits, one thing is certain—they will leave you craving more.
Health Benefits
While fried chicken biscuits might not immediately come to mind when thinking about healthy meals, there are several ways to make this recipe a bit more nutritious while still enjoying its comfort food appeal.
Protein-Packed Meal
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle building and keeping you full for longer. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts reduces the fat content while still delivering a satisfying crunch.
Homemade vs. Fast Food
Making this dish at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients. Unlike store-bought or fast-food versions, you can use organic chicken, whole grain flour, and homemade biscuits to make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
Healthier Frying Options
Instead of deep-frying, you can air-fry or bake the chicken to cut down on excess oil while still getting that crispy texture. Using avocado oil or another high-smoke-point healthy oil for frying is another way to make it a bit better for you.
Honey’s Natural Benefits
Honey contains antioxidants and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a better choice than refined sugar. Plus, spicy foods have been linked to metabolism-boosting benefits, so that hot honey drizzle may have a small, but tasty, upside.
So, while this recipe is definitely a treat, it’s one you can feel good about—especially when made with high-quality ingredients and a few smart swaps.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings
This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a small family meal or a brunch gathering.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 20g
- Sugar: 10g (from honey)
These values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Ingredients List
For the Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 4 pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Hot Honey
- ½ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Biscuits
- 4 large buttermilk biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Make the Hot Honey
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir until warm and slightly runny, about 2 minutes.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Coating
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks.
- Place coated chicken on a wire rack and let sit for 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Bake the Biscuits
- If using store-bought biscuits, bake according to package instructions.
- If using homemade, bake until golden brown.
- Brush warm biscuits with melted butter.
Step 6: Assemble & Serve
- Slice biscuits in half.
- Place a crispy fried chicken piece inside each biscuit.
- Drizzle generously with hot honey.
- Close the sandwich and enjoy immediately.
How to Serve these Spicy Honey Chicken Biscuits
Now that your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits are golden, crispy, and drizzled with that sweet and spicy honey, it’s time to serve them in the most delicious way possible. These biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways depending on the occasion and your personal preferences.
Best Ways to Serve These Spicy Honey Chicken Biscuits
- Classic Style – Simply enjoy them fresh from the oven, with a crispy fried chicken piece tucked between a warm biscuit and smothered in hot honey. This is the traditional and most satisfying way to eat them.
- With a Side of Pickles – A few tangy bread and butter pickles or dill pickle slices on the sandwich add a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the fried chicken.
- Topped with Extra Butter – If you want even more indulgence, add a small pat of softened butter inside the biscuit before adding the chicken. The warm biscuit will melt the butter, creating an extra layer of richness.
- With a Side of Eggs – Serve these biscuits alongside scrambled, poached, or sunny-side-up eggs for a complete Southern-style breakfast or brunch. The combination of creamy eggs with crispy chicken is irresistible.
- With a Side of Coleslaw – A fresh and crunchy coleslaw balances the richness of the biscuits and fried chicken. A tangy slaw made with vinegar or a slightly creamy dressing works well.
- Served with Mashed Potatoes – If you’re making these for lunch or dinner, a side of creamy mashed potatoes and gravy transforms this into a comforting meal.
- With a Light Salad – A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great contrast to the rich, crunchy chicken biscuit.
Serving for a Crowd
If you’re making these biscuits for a brunch gathering, consider setting up a “build-your-own sandwich” station. Provide different toppings like extra honey, hot sauce, pickles, sliced cheese, and coleslaw so everyone can customize their own sandwich.
Whether you serve them as a quick breakfast or a full meal, these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits will disappear fast.
Pairing Suggestions
To truly enjoy these biscuits to the fullest, pairing them with the right side dishes and drinks can enhance the experience. Here are some excellent pairings to complement the crispy chicken, buttery biscuits, and spicy-sweet honey drizzle.
Best Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries – The slight sweetness of roasted or fried sweet potato fries pairs beautifully with the spicy honey.
- Mac and Cheese – A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with crispy fried chicken.
- Corn on the Cob – Brushed with butter and lightly salted, grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a simple yet delicious side.
- Biscuits and Gravy – If you’re going all out, serve an extra side of biscuits with a drizzle of sausage or peppered white gravy for even more Southern comfort.
- Fried Okra – Crispy fried okra brings a crunchy, slightly earthy element that balances the rich flavors of the biscuits and chicken.
- Potato Wedges – Thick-cut, seasoned potato wedges are another crispy, satisfying addition to this meal.
Best Drinks to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
- Sweet Iced Tea – A classic Southern sweet tea cools down the heat from the hot honey and complements the biscuits beautifully.
- Lemonade – The refreshing tartness of homemade lemonade pairs perfectly with the richness of the fried chicken.
- Iced Coffee – A cold brew or iced coffee with a splash of milk is a great match for the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon – If you want something light and refreshing, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
- Milkshakes – If you’re in the mood for an indulgent pairing, a vanilla or caramel milkshake adds an extra level of sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the honey.
These pairings turn a simple biscuit sandwich into a meal that’s both satisfying and well-balanced, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover biscuits and chicken, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness and crispiness.
- Biscuits: Store any extra biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Fried Chicken: Store leftover fried chicken pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
- Hot Honey: The honey mixture can be stored in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
How to Freeze the Spicy Honey Chicken Biscuits for Later
If you want to make a batch ahead of time, freezing is a great option.
- Biscuits: Allow biscuits to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Fried Chicken: Place cooled fried chicken pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Hot Honey: It’s best to make fresh hot honey when serving, but you can store it in the fridge if needed.
How to Reheat
- Biscuits: Reheat biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warm. If microwaving, wrap them in a damp paper towel and heat for 20-30 seconds to keep them soft.
- Fried Chicken: The best way to reheat fried chicken without losing crispiness is in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. If in a hurry, use an air fryer at 375°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the chicken soggy.
- Hot Honey: If the honey has thickened, warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before drizzling over the biscuits.
Proper storage and reheating ensure that your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits taste just as good as when they were first made.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is fairly simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the Buttermilk Marinade – Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is essential for tenderness and flavor. Skipping this step may result in dry, tough chicken.
- Not Letting the Coating Stick – After dredging the chicken in flour, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off.
- Frying at the Wrong Temperature – If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will be greasy. Always keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
- Overcrowding the Pan – Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, making the chicken less crispy. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using Too Much Hot Honey – A light drizzle of hot honey enhances the flavor, but adding too much can make the biscuit soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed.
By avoiding these mistakes, your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits will turn out perfect every time.
Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits
To make sure your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits turn out absolutely perfect, here are some expert tips that will take your dish to the next level.
1. Use Fresh Buttermilk for the Best Marinade
Buttermilk isn’t just for flavor—it’s key to tenderizing the chicken. The acidity in buttermilk helps break down the proteins, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
2. Double Coat for Extra Crunch
For an even crispier crust, double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk after the first flour coating and then dredging it in the flour mixture again. This creates a thicker, crunchier coating that holds up well to the hot honey drizzle.
3. Rest the Coated Chicken Before Frying
Once the chicken is coated in flour, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.
4. Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature
The perfect frying temperature is 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain a steady temperature.
5. Drain the Fried Chicken Properly
After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents it from sitting in excess oil, keeping the crust crispy and crunchy. If you only have paper towels, be sure to blot gently instead of letting the chicken rest on them.
6. Use High-Quality Honey for the Best Flavor
Since honey is one of the main flavors in this dish, using raw, high-quality honey makes a big difference. Look for local or organic honey for the best natural sweetness.
7. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference
If you love extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the honey. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the spice or use regular honey without the extra kick.
8. Don’t Overwork the Biscuit Dough
If you’re making homemade biscuits, be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough, dense biscuits instead of light and flaky ones. Handle the dough gently and use cold butter for the best texture.
9. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture
These biscuits taste best right after they’re assembled, while the chicken is hot and crispy, and the honey is warm and drizzling. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving.
10. Try Baking or Air-Frying for a Lighter Version
If you want a healthier option, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying. To bake, place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. To air-fry, spray the coated chicken with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
These pro tips will ensure your Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits turn out crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor every single time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Biscuits Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the biscuits up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
2. What’s the Best Way to Keep Fried Chicken Crispy?
To keep fried chicken crispy, place it on a wire rack instead of a paper towel after frying. If making a large batch, keep it warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.
3. Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option because they stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take an extra minute or two to cook through.
4. What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
5. How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the coating and use gluten-free biscuits. The frying process remains the same.
6. Can I Make the Hot Honey Less Spicy?
Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and hot sauce in the honey. You can also use plain honey for a sweet-only version.
7. Can I Use Store-Bought Biscuits?
Of course! Store-bought biscuits work perfectly if you’re short on time. Just bake them according to the package instructions and brush with melted butter before serving.
8. How Can I Reheat Leftovers Without Making the Chicken Soggy?
Reheat fried chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it makes the coating soggy.
9. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk) mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute. For the biscuits, use a dairy-free butter alternative.
10. What’s the Best Oil for Frying the Chicken?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or avocado oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn easily.
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you’re a fan of crispy, sweet, and spicy comfort food, these Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits are a must-try! They deliver perfectly golden fried chicken, flaky buttery biscuits, and a sticky, slightly spicy honey drizzle—all in one incredible bite. Whether you’re making them for brunch, lunch, or a fun weeknight meal, they’re guaranteed to impress.
The best part? You can customize the spice level, make them ahead of time, and even swap in healthier alternatives like air-fried chicken or gluten-free biscuits. Plus, with easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy them again the next day without losing that signature crunch.
Now that you have everything you need to make the ultimate Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits, it’s time to get in the kitchen and give it a try! I’d love to hear how yours turn out—so if you make this recipe, be sure to leave a comment and let me know how you liked it.
Better yet, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram so I can see your delicious creations. Let’s spread the love for crispy, sweet, and spicy goodness!
Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
PrintHot Honey Chicken Biscuits – Crispy, Sweet & Spicy Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits are the perfect balance of crispy, juicy fried chicken, soft buttery biscuits, and a drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey. This easy homemade recipe is great for brunch, lunch, or a fun family meal.
Ingredients
-
For the Fried Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 4 pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
-
For the Hot Honey:
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
-
For the Biscuits:
- 4 large buttermilk biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Hot Honey: In a saucepan over low heat, warm honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir and set aside.
- Coat the Chicken: Mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a dish. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
- Bake the Biscuits: Prepare biscuits according to package or homemade recipe. Brush with melted butter.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice biscuits in half, place fried chicken inside, and drizzle with hot honey. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Air-Fryer Option: Air-fry chicken at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern