Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy texture with a hint of sweetness, you’ll absolutely love this Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers recipe.
The first bite is pure bliss—the golden crust gives way to tender chicken, and that sweet honey flavor elevates the dish to another level.
I can’t get enough of how versatile these fingers are; they’re perfect for dipping or as a main course. Plus, they’re a hit at parties or cozy family dinners.
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving these chicken fingers again and again. They’re simply irresistible!
Ingredients of Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers
When it comes to whipping up something deliciously crispy and just a bit sweet, the ingredients for Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers are what set the stage for some serious flavor magic. You might find your mouth watering just thinking about the combination of the rich buttermilk and the sweet honey coating the tender chicken.
And the spices? They bring everything to life, making each bite a delightful surprise. So, let’s break down what you’ll need to make this finger-licking goodness.
Ingredients:
- 4 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Flavoring of choice (like garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, curry powder, ground cumin, or paprika)
- 1 1/3 cups buttermilk
- 2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut crosswise into 8 to 9 strips
- 1 quart peanut oil or corn oil (for frying)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
As you gather your ingredients, keep in mind that you can mix and match the spices to suit your taste. If you’re not a fan of Old Bay seasoning or curry powder, feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Maybe throw in some chili powder for a kick, or keep it simple with just garlic powder. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
And while you’re at it, remember that buttermilk is key here—it not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps that glorious crispy coating stick like a dream.
How to Make Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers
Alright, let’s plunge into making these Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers. First things first, you’ll want to grab 1 1/3 cups of buttermilk. In a large bowl or a shallow baking dish, mix that buttermilk with 4 teaspoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Now, here’s where you can have some fun—add in your choice of flavoring. Whether it’s a teaspoon of garlic powder, a tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, or even a sprinkle of paprika, this is where you can tailor it to your taste buds. Just toss your chicken strips—about 2 1/2 pounds of boneless skinless breast halves cut into 8 to 9 strips—into that buttermilk mixture, and make sure they’re well coated. Let them soak while you prep for frying; this is essential for that tender, juicy goodness we’re aiming for.
Now, it’s time to get your frying station set up! You’ll need a quart of either peanut or corn oil for frying. Heat it in a large skillet over high heat until it reaches 375 degrees—this is where the magic happens.
While the oil is heating, grab 3 cups of all-purpose flour and mix it with 1 tablespoon of salt in a doubled paper bag or a large Ziploc bag—makes for easy cleanup, trust me. Once that oil is hot and ready, take your chicken strips out of the buttermilk and shake off any excess liquid before dropping them into the flour bag. Give it a good shake to coat the strips evenly.
Now for the fun part. Working in batches (about four at a time), carefully drop the chicken into that hot oil. You’ll fry them for about 3 minutes, turning them if necessary to get that beautiful golden-brown color all around. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a cooking superstar.
Once they’re done, use a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain the excess oil. Keep those first batches warm in the oven set at 200 degrees while you finish frying the rest.
And just like that, you’ve got yourself some deliciously crispy Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers, perfect for dipping and devouring. Enjoy every crunchy, tender bite!
Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers Substitutions & Variations
Curious about how to switch things up with your Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers? I love experimenting with different flavors!
You can swap out honey for maple syrup for a unique sweetness. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. Want a twist on the buttermilk? Use yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with vinegar.
And don’t forget to throw in your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the breading! The possibilities are endless—get creative!
What to Serve with Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers
To elevate your Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers, consider pairing them with a variety of delicious sides.
I love serving them with a rejuvenating coleslaw; the crunch complements the crispy chicken perfectly. A side of sweet potato fries adds a delightful contrast, while a tangy dipping sauce, like honey mustard or ranch, enhances the flavors.
You can’t go wrong with a classic side of mashed potatoes or a light garden salad for balance. For a touch of indulgence, try macaroni and cheese.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying those crispy Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers, a few additional tips can really enhance your cooking experience.
First, let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk mixture overnight if you can; it makes the meat even more tender.
Use a thermometer to guarantee your oil stays at 375 degrees for perfectly fried chicken.
I also recommend double-dipping the chicken strips in the flour for extra crunch.
If you want to add a twist, try experimenting with different seasonings—like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
Finally, serve them hot for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy every bite!