Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instruction Group 1: Prepare the Brine
Step 1:
- Butterfly the chicken breasts by placing them on a cutting board and slicing horizontally through the middle, stopping about ½ inch from the edge so the two halves remain connected. Open like a book and gently pound to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Frank's RedHot, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the salt dissolves completely.
Step 3:
- Submerge the chicken breasts completely in the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal for maximum tenderness.
Instruction Group 2: Prepare the Breading
Step 4:
- In a wide, shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 5:
- Remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk but do not shake off the excess. Press it firmly into the flour mixture, coating both sides completely. Shake off the excess, then dip it back into the buttermilk for just a second.
Step 6:
- Dredge through the flour mixture one more time, pressing gently to create thick, shaggy layers. These layers create the craggy, extra-crispy texture.
Step 7:
- Dredge through the flour mixture one more time, pressing gently to create thick, shaggy layers. These layers create the craggy, extra-crispy texture.
Instruction Group 3: Fry the Chicken
Step 8:
- Pour peanut oil into a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven until it reaches a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Clip a cooking thermometer to the side and heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches exactly 350°F (177°C).
Step 9:
- Gently lower one piece of chicken into the oil using tongs. The oil temperature will drop immediately; adjust your heat to bring it back to 340-345°F (171-174°C).
Step 10:
- Fry for 6 to 7 minutes, then flip and cook another 6 to 7 minutes. You are looking for a deep golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
Step 11:
- Remove the chicken and place it on a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet. Never drain fried chicken on paper towels as the steam gets trapped underneath, making the bottom soggy. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes.
Step 12:
- Let the oil return to 350°F (177°C) before adding the next piece. Repeat until all chicken is cooked.
Instruction Group 4: Make Hot Honey Glaze & Assemble
Step 13:
- While the chicken rests, prepare the hot honey. In a small saucepan, combine Mike's Hot Honey, Frank's RedHot, and apple cider vinegar. Warm it over low heat, stirring gently, until it becomes pourable but not hot—around 110°F (43°C). Do not overheat or boil.
Step 14:
- After the chicken has rested for 2 to 3 minutes, brush the hot honey generously over both sides. The residual heat from the crust will cause the honey to set into a glossy, slightly tacky glaze.
Step 15:
- Slice your brioche buns in half and spread a thin layer of softened Kerrygold butter on the cut sides. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the buns cut-side down until golden and fragrant—about 2 minutes.
Step 16:
- Place the hot honey-glazed chicken on the bottom bun. Top with 3 to 4 dill pickle slices. Add coleslaw if desired. Cap with the top bun, press down gently, and serve immediately.
Notes
**Oil Temperature is Critical:** Always use a thermometer. Frying below 325°F (163°C) causes greasy breading; above 375°F (191°C) burns the outside before the inside cooks through. **Air Fryer Method:** Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Spray breaded chicken generously with cooking spray. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Texture will be slightly different but still delicious. **Make Ahead:** You can brine the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Bread and fry fresh for best texture. **Storage:** Store unglazed fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (191°C) for 6-8 minutes or in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes. Apply fresh hot honey after reheating. **Spice Level Adjustment:** Adjust the cayenne pepper in the breading and the amount of hot sauce in the honey to match your heat preference. Start with half the amount if you're sensitive to spice. **Chicken Thighs:** You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicier due to higher fat content and cook slightly faster—check for doneness around 10-11 minutes total frying time.
