Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast (cut in half to create smaller pieces)
• 1.333 cup buttermilk
• 0.25 cup hot sauce (for marinade)
• 0.25 cup pickle juice
• 1.5 cup all purpose flour
• 0.5 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp garlic powder (for flour mixture)
• 2 tsp onion powder (for flour mixture)
• 2 tsp cayenne powder (use less if desired)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1 tsp salt (for flour mixture)
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp msg (optional)
• vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)
• 0.333 cup hot sauce (for sauce)
• 0.5 cup honey
• 0.5 tsp brown sugar
• 0.125 tsp salt (for sauce)
• 8 slider buns
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for buns)
• 1 tsp parsley (dried or fresh minced)
• 0.25 tsp garlic powder (for bun topping)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, paprika, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and optional MSG), pickle juice, and hot sauce.

2. 2

   Let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor and texture.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned dredge.

4. 4

   Heat frying oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C).

5. 5

   Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.

6. 6

   Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick, even coating on all sides.

7. 7

   Fry the chicken in batches for 4–6 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

8. 8

   Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to maintain crispiness.

9. 9

   In a small saucepan, combine the honey, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1/3 cup hot sauce. Mix until well combined.

10. 10

    Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.

11. 11

    Brush the fried chicken pieces generously with the hot honey sauce on both sides.

12. 12

    Slice the slider buns horizontally and brush the cut sides with butter.

13. 13

    Place the buns into a pan over medium-high heat and toast until they are slightly golden brown.

14. 14

    Mix the remaining melted butter with parsley and a pinch of garlic powder, then brush this mixture over the tops of the toasted buns.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne powder in the flour dredge.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• fried chicken
• sliders
• hot honey
• dinner
• party food
• spicy