Print

Honey Butter Chicken with Crispy Garlic

This Honey Butter Chicken with Crispy Garlic features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory glaze. The crispy garlic adds an irresistible crunch, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (for frying garlic)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk together until well mixed.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together until smooth. This will create a flavorful batter that helps the flour stick to the chicken.
  3. Heat about 2 cups of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it shimmers and a small drop of batter sizzles immediately upon contact.
  4. While the oil heats, dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then dredge it in the flour mixture, coating it completely. Set aside on a plate.
  5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in batches. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Avoid flipping too soon; wait until a crust forms to prevent tearing.
  6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. For the honey butter sauce, in a small saucepan over low heat, combine the unsalted butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until melted and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
  8. For crispy garlic, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels with a pinch of salt.
  9. To serve, drizzle the honey butter sauce over the fried chicken, and top with crispy garlic. Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Nutrition

Keywords: For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade as it adds flavor and tenderizes the chicken.