Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this sensational Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe! Imagine crispy, tender, bite-sized pieces of succulent chicken, each enveloped in a perfectly crunchy coating, then generously drizzled with a homemade sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that effortlessly combines the irresistible allure of classic fried chicken with a modern, fiery twist. It’s the ultimate easy, high-protein meal prep solution that promises big, bold flavors without demanding hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend entertaining.
We are incredibly excited to share this brand new recipe with you today! If you, like us, are a devoted fan of fried chicken, these delightful popcorn chicken bites are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The unique combination of sweet and spicy heat is utterly addictive, ensuring you’ll be reaching for more long after the first bite. This dish transcends a simple snack; it’s a culinary journey that delivers comforting familiarity alongside an exciting new kick, perfect for elevating any meal.
Irresistible Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
This Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe masterfully delivers the perfect symphony of sweet and spicy flavors. Each piece features juicy chicken encased in an incredibly crispy shell, all generously tossed in a meticulously crafted homemade hot honey sauce. It’s a true “one-pan wonder” that gracefully transitions from the stovetop to your serving plate with minimal fuss, transforming into a pure comfort meal that requires hardly any cleanup. Forget multiple dishes and complicated steps; this recipe focuses on maximum flavor with maximum ease. The contrasting textures of the crunchy exterior and tender interior, coupled with the complex sweet-heat glaze, create a dining experience that is both satisfying and exciting.
If you find yourself captivated by the flavors of this Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken, you’re in for a treat with these other crowd-pleasing recipes: Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli, Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket, and Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. These delectable options offer similar profiles of comfort and flavor, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire.
What Exactly is Hot Honey Chicken?
Hot Honey Chicken is an innovative and utterly delicious spin on traditional fried chicken, cleverly fusing the golden sweetness of honey with the exhilarating kick of hot sauce. This particular southern-inspired hot honey popcorn chicken variation has exploded in popularity, especially across social media platforms like TikTok, where countless videos showcase the effortless process of creating these addictive chicken bites right in your own kitchen. What makes these hot honey chicken nuggets so incredibly appealing isn’t just their fantastic taste, but also the unparalleled flexibility they offer. You can effortlessly customize the heat level to perfectly match your preference, simply by adjusting the amount or type of hot sauce you incorporate into the glaze. From a gentle warmth to a fiery inferno, the choice is entirely yours, ensuring a personalized culinary adventure every time. This dish represents a perfect marriage of classic comfort food with a modern, dynamic flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Essential Ingredients for Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Crafting the perfect Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that sought-after crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed result. While a comprehensive list with precise measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below, let’s explore the key components that bring this dish to life:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into convenient bite-sized pieces, this forms the tender core of your popcorn chicken. For an even juicier bite and richer flavor, boneless chicken thighs also work exceptionally well.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the fundamental building block for your crispy coating, creating the initial layer that adheres to the chicken.
- Cornstarch: The secret weapon for extra crunch! Adding cornstarch to your flour mixture ensures a lighter, crispier texture that truly elevates the fried coating.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the coating with a savory, aromatic depth, complementing the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Black Pepper: Provides a subtle, classic spice and a hint of warmth to the seasoned flour mix.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors. Fine sea salt is often preferred for its even distribution.
- Eggs: Act as a crucial binder, creating a bridge between the chicken and the dry coating, ensuring everything sticks perfectly for that double-fried crisp.
- Honey: The sweet cornerstone of your irresistible hot honey sauce, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
- Hot Sauce: The component that delivers the signature heat! Choose your favorite brand and type to customize the spice level to your liking.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, it provides the medium for achieving that golden-brown, irresistibly crispy exterior. Canola or peanut oil are also excellent alternatives.
Keep reading to discover valuable substitutions, ingenious tips, and clever tricks that will help you master this Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe and tailor it to your exact preferences.
How to Craft Your Own Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Achieving this high-protein, crispy, and utterly delicious Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is surprisingly quick and straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results:
Begin by preparing your frying station. Add your preferred vegetable, canola, or peanut oil to a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to precisely 375°F over medium heat. This initial heating process typically takes about 10 minutes, providing ample time to prepare your chicken coating.
While the oil heats, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a large, shallow bowl. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. Next, prepare a separate shallow dish with two beaten large eggs. To achieve that signature extra-crispy exterior, you’ll want to double-coat your chicken. First, toss your bite-sized chicken pieces in the dry flour mixture until they are thoroughly and evenly coated. Shake off any excess. Then, dip each floured piece into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, return the egg-dipped chicken back into the dry ingredients for a second coating, ensuring a thick, robust shell.
Carefully transfer the double-coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in small batches (typically 6-8 pieces at a time) to prevent overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer the fried chicken to a plate generously lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process until all chicken is cooked.
For the glorious hot honey sauce, combine your chosen honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan. Whisk the mixture gently over medium heat until it just begins to bubble. This brief heating process helps to meld the flavors and create a slightly thicker, more syrupy consistency. Once the chicken is fried and the sauce is ready, generously drizzle the hot honey sauce over all the crispy popcorn chicken pieces. Toss gently to ensure every bite is coated in that irresistible sweet and spicy glaze. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For optimal crispiness when reheating, we highly recommend using an air fryer. Simply warm the chicken for 4-5 minutes at 380°F (193°C). Alternatively, you can freeze cooked popcorn chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for a slightly longer duration, or thaw first for quicker crisping.
Love It? Pin It!
If you’re already envisioning making this delectable Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken Recipe a staple in your kitchen, don’t let it slip away! Be sure to Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go, so you can easily find it whenever a craving strikes. Sharing is caring, and your followers will thank you for this incredible sweet-heat sensation!
Creative Substitutions & Variations for Your Popcorn Chicken
One of the best aspects of this Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these simple substitutions and creative variations to tailor the dish to your dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- **Gluten-Free Option:** Easily adapt this recipe by using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- **Juicier Chicken:** For an even richer, juicier bite, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. They offer a deeper flavor profile and tend to stay moist even when fried.
- **Enhanced Crunch:** Take the crispiness to the next level by crushing some plain cornflakes and adding them to your flour coating mixture. This creates an unparalleled textural contrast.
- **Baking Alternative:** If you prefer not to deep-fry, arrange the coated chicken pieces on a prepared baking sheet fitted with a wire rack. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- **Air Fryer Method:** For a healthier, less messy alternative, cook your popcorn chicken in an air fryer. Preheat to 390°F (199°C) and cook in batches for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crispy and golden.
- **Flavorful Coating Enhancements:** Introduce new dimensions of flavor to your coating mixture by adding a teaspoon of onion powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of chili powder for an extra layer of savory spice.
- **Spice Level Control:** As mentioned, adjust the hot sauce quantity in the honey glaze. For a milder version, use less hot sauce; for an extra fiery kick, increase it or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce as it simmers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving this delicious dish:
- What are the best accompaniments for hot honey chicken? For dipping, a creamy ranch dressing or a cool blue cheese dip perfectly complements the sweet heat. As a main course, serve these golden bites with comforting sides like creamy mashed potatoes, classic homemade french fries, crispy baked sweet potato fries, or a refreshing fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. For cooked chicken, leftovers are fantastic the next day. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results to restore their crispiness.
- Is it possible to freeze cooked hot honey popcorn chicken? Yes, this recipe is freezer-friendly! Once cooled, freeze the cooked popcorn chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For reheating, you can cook it directly from frozen in an air fryer until heated through and crispy.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Mastering this recipe is easy with these insider tips and tricks:
- Maintain Oil Temperature: The key to perfectly crispy (not greasy) chicken is keeping your oil temperature consistently between 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in small batches. Overcrowding the pan drastically drops the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Patience is a virtue here!
- Double-Coating is Key: Don’t skip the double-coating step! This technique creates an extra-crispy, substantial exterior that stands up beautifully to the hot honey glaze.
- Sauce for Dipping: Always make a little extra hot honey sauce. It’s fantastic for dipping, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
- Pat Chicken Dry: Before coating, thoroughly pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking properly and result in less crispy chicken.
- Boost the Heat: For those who crave an extra fiery kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to your hot honey sauce while it’s simmering.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Love
Craving more fantastic ways to enjoy chicken? We’ve got you covered! If you prefer to skip the heat, try our classic Crispy Honey Chicken, perfectly pictured above. Or, grab your air fryer and whip up some delightful BBQ Chicken Tenders or comforting homemade Chicken Fried Steak. For a nostalgic treat, give this classic copycat recipe for KFC Fried Chicken a try, or explore our unique Oven Fried Chicken in a Biscuit Sandwiches. If grilling is more your style, our Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken is an absolute must-try. Hungry for even more inspiration? You can find all of our incredible chicken recipes here, perfect for any occasion.
Don’t Wait! Give This Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken a Try Today!
Whether you’re looking for an exciting appetizer, a flavorful main dish, or an easy high-protein option for meal prep, this Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe is guaranteed to deliver crispy, sweet, and spicy perfection in every single bite. The masterful combination of an incredibly crunchy exterior, tender and juicy chicken within, and that utterly irresistible hot honey glaze creates a dish that is truly impossible to resist. It’s a culinary experience that will impress guests, delight family members, and leave you craving more. Make it today and taste the magic!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Craving the perfect balance of sweet and spicy? Try this Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken recipe! Crispy chicken bites drizzled with homemade hot honey sauce – an easy high-protein meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chicken, fried chicken, hot honey, one pan meal, popcorn chicken
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 2440kcal
Equipment
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast, diced
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup hot sauce
- 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Add your oil to a large pot and let it heat up to 375°F on the stovetop over medium heat.
- The oil is going to take about 10 minutes to heat up, which should be enough time to prep your popcorn chicken. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and spices. Toss the chicken in the dry ingredients until evenly coated.
- Beat your eggs in a small dish and dip each piece of chicken in the eggs.
- Return your chicken to the dry ingredients and toss again.
- Working in batches, fry up to 8 pieces of chicken at a time in the hot oil. Let your chicken cook for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer your chicken to a plate lined with paper towels and repeat the process for the remaining chicken.
- Whisk together the honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan. Heat the sauce over medium heat until it just starts to bubble. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over your chicken.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Vegetable, canola, and peanut oil can all be used to fry your chicken. Just make sure the oil is at about 350-375°F.
- We like to coat our chicken in flour before the eggs as well as after to help thicken the coating, giving it a crispier shell.
- We typically use chicken breasts, but you can also use chicken tenderloins. Boneless skinless chicken thighs will also work.
- The cornstarch helps maximize the crunchiness of the fried shell.
- Keep your leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat your popcorn chicken in the air fryer for 4-5 minutes at 380°F. The air fryer will help re-crisp your chicken. You can also reheat some popcorn chicken in the microwave for 45-75 seconds.
- Feel free to use your favorite hot sauce. Frank’s Red Hot sauce works great and is available at most major grocery stores.
- You can easily control the spice level of your hot honey sauce. For a sweeter sauce, reduce the amount of hot sauce to 1/4 cup. For a spicier sauce, use 1/2 cup of hot sauce.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 2440kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 226g | Saturated Fat: 35g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 126g | Monounsaturated Fat: 52g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 227mg | Sodium: 1672mg | Potassium: 964mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 237IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg