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When you bite into one of these hot honey fried chicken sliders you get all the crispy crunch you hope for paired with juicy chicken sticky spicy honey and a tangy slaw that keeps things fresh. These sliders are always the first to disappear on game day and are perfect for any party where finger food is a must.
My friends beg for these every time I host. The first time I made them the spicy honey left everyone grinning and grabbing seconds now they are my personal favorite way to spice up a weekend gathering.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: provide extra juice and flavor unlike chicken breast try to pick well-trimmed thighs from a reliable butcher
- Buttermilk: makes the chicken tender and tangy look for cultured buttermilk in the dairy section
- Hot sauce: adds a punch of flavor I like something vinegar-forward for brighter taste
- All-purpose flour and cornstarch combo: gives the chicken ultra crispy coating pick flour with a fine grind
- Kosher salt: brings out all the seasoning opt for flaky kosher salt if possible
- Black pepper and smoked paprika: bring earthy and smoky notes try fresh cracked pepper for maximum aroma
- Garlic powder: adds allium sweetness check the label for pure powder no additives
- Vegetable oil for frying: choose a neutral high-heat oil and check freshness for no off flavors
- Honey: is key for the sticky sauce raw local honey has the best flavor
- More hot sauce and chili flakes: turn up the heat adjust to preference or try chipotle for a twist
- Unsalted butter: helps the honey glaze shine pick good quality for added richness
- Green cabbage and carrots: form the slaw crunchy and classic go for crisp not wilted produce
- Mayonnaise: blends the slaw together I like full fat for best flavor check ingredient label for real eggs and oil
- Apple cider vinegar: brightens the slaw use unfiltered for more tang
- Sugar: balances and softens the slaw pick finely milled sugar for smooth mixing
- Mini brioche slider buns: give a luxurious bite look for a golden top and soft crumb
- Dill pickle chips: add contrast and zing refrigerated pickles have extra crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken thighs in a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce Let them soak for at least twenty minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness
- Prepare the Crispy Coating:
- In a new bowl blend flour cornstarch salt pepper smoked paprika and garlic powder Mix well so every piece of chicken gets evenly coated and the crust crisps perfectly
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Remove each thigh letting any marinade drip away Coat in the flour mixture pressing both sides so you get a generous breading Leave coated chicken to rest five minutes which helps the coating stay on during frying
- Heat the Oil:
- Fill a heavy skillet or Dutch oven with a couple inches of vegetable oil Heat to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Use a thermometer for precision to prevent soggy or burnt chicken
- Fry the Chicken:
- Slip chicken pieces gently into the hot oil Cook in batches four to five minutes per side until each piece is deeply golden and cooked through The chicken will be extra crunchy and juicy inside Drain on paper towels to catch excess oil
- Make the Hot Honey:
- In a saucepan combine honey hot sauce chili flakes and butter Set over low heat until the butter melts Whisk until smooth but do not boil This makes the honey spicy and lush
- Prepare the Slaw:
- Mix cabbage carrots mayonnaise vinegar sugar salt and pepper Toss until all veggies are coated and mixture is creamy Chill it so the slaw stays crisp and cool
- Coat Chicken with Hot Honey:
- Brush each fried chicken piece with plenty of spicy honey This seals in flavor and gives them that signature glisten
- Assemble the Sliders:
- On the bottom of each brioche bun layer a spoonful of slaw Place a piece of hot honey chicken on top Add two pickle chips and finish with the top bun Serve right away for maximum crunch
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For me the moment when the hot honey hits the fried chicken is magic The aroma alone draws my kids to the kitchen every single time My favorite part is loading up on the pickles for that ultimate bite
Storage Tips
Once fried let extra chicken cool then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days Reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit to crisp them up again Bun and slaw can be stored separately so nothing gets soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for chicken tenders or breasts just don't skip the buttermilk marinade You can use a different hot sauce or add more chili flakes if you want an even bigger kick Greek yogurt can work in place of mayo for a lighter slaw
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders with a side of crispy fries or kettle chips and some cold coleslaw For drinks they pair beautifully with sparkling lemonade hoppy beer or even a simple iced tea If you want to go big offer a DIY slider bar so guests can stack their own toppings
Little History of Hot Honey
Hot honey is becoming a kitchen staple in American kitchens It blends sweet and spicy in a way that goes perfectly with crispy foods like fried chicken and pizza This trend started in Southern kitchens where fried chicken and bold flavors are always welcome
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
Ensure the chicken is well dredged in the seasoned flour mixture and allow it to rest before frying. Fry in hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan for even crispness.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work as a substitute. Slice them into even pieces for uniform cooking and tenderness.
- → How spicy is the hot honey?
The heat level is adjustable. Add more chili flakes or hot sauce to intensify the spice, or reduce amounts for milder flavor.
- → Can the slaw be prepared ahead?
Absolutely! Make the slaw a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Serve chilled for extra crunch and freshness.
- → Are store-bought buns and slaw suitable substitutions?
Store-bought buns and pre-made slaw can be used for convenience, though homemade versions enhance texture and taste.