Honey Fried Chicken
Honey fried chicken offers a crispy coating with a touch of sweetness, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings that enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your frypan and prepare a cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Mix flour, cornmeal, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.
- Heat Crisco in the frypan over medium heat until hot.
- Fry the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 15 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels if desired.
- Serve hot with honey drizzled on top or on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk with spices before dredging. If you don't have cornmeal, you can substitute with additional flour or use breadcrumbs for a different texture. Ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy, and adjust the cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the honey fried chicken with a side of coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Savory Dried Cranberry Sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast. For a more balanced plate, consider a light salad or steamed vegetables as a side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover honey fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness, rather than microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Fried Chicken contains roughly 260 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 535mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Boneless pieces may cook faster, so check for doneness after about 10-12 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What oil can I use instead of Crisco?
You can substitute Crisco with vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying. Each oil has a different flavor profile and smoke point, so choose one that complements your taste. Just ensure it's suitable for frying at high temperatures.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make honey fried chicken healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts or thighs, and bake instead of fry. For baking, coat the chicken with the mixture and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through. This will reduce the fat content while still keeping it delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).