Spicy Honey Butter Fried Chicken

🛒 Ingredients (Check Off As You Measure)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank's)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, soak chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Dredge each buttermilk-soaked thigh in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter with honey and hot sauce over low heat, stirring until smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using.
5. Toss the fried chicken in the honey butter glaze until each piece is coated. Serve immediately, drizzling extra glaze on top.