That sounds like an absolutely mouth-watering combination! Honey Glaze Sweet & Spicy Fried Chicken paired with Buttermilk Mac & Cheese is a comfort food dream. The sweetness and spice of the chicken perfectly balance the creamy richness of the mac and cheese. Here’s a detailed recipe to make this indulgent feast.
Honey Glaze Sweet & Spicy Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
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4 large chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in or boneless)
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1 1/2 cups buttermilk
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2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional, depending on spice preference)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Flour Coating:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Glaze:
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1/2 cup honey
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2 tablespoons sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
For Frying:
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken:
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In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
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Prepare the Flour Coating:
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In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
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Take each piece of marinated chicken, letting any excess marinade drip off, and coat it in the flour mixture. Press the coating into the chicken to ensure it’s well-covered.
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Fry the Chicken:
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Heat oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken halfway.
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Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side (depending on the size of the chicken) or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
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Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Make the Honey Glaze:
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In a small saucepan, combine the honey, sriracha (or hot sauce), apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Taste and adjust sweetness/spice as desired.
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Glaze the Chicken:
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Once the fried chicken has drained, drizzle or brush the honey glaze over the chicken pieces. Alternatively, you can toss the chicken in the glaze for an even coating.
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Serve:
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Serve the glazed chicken hot with your creamy buttermilk mac & cheese on the side!
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Buttermilk Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Cheese Sauce:
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Pasta:
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1 lb elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
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Salt (for pasta water)
For the Topping (optional):
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon butter (melted)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to make a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until golden, but not browned.
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Slowly add the whole milk and buttermilk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).
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Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne or paprika (optional).
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Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
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Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Optional: Make a Crunchy Topping:
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In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
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Place the mac and cheese under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
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Serve:
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Serve the mac and cheese alongside your honey-glazed fried chicken for the perfect comfort food combo.
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Enjoy!
This honey glaze sweet & spicy fried chicken paired with creamy buttermilk mac & cheese is a meal that will satisfy all your taste buds. The crispy, flavorful chicken with the sweet and spicy glaze will contrast beautifully with the rich and cheesy mac and cheese. Perfect for any gathering or special meal!