The Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is the epitome of Southern comfort food. A crispy, golden piece of fried chicken is nestled between two buttery, flaky biscuits, creating a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors. Add a generous spread of sweet honey butter, and you’ve got a meal that’s sweet, savory, and satisfying all at once.
This recipe is perfect for brunch, lunch, or a quick dinner when you’re craving something hearty and delicious. The homemade biscuits are incredibly soft and tender, while the perfectly seasoned fried chicken adds the perfect crunch. Paired with the rich honey butter, every bite is a delightful balance of flavors. Treat your family and friends to this iconic dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 4 pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
For the Honey Butter:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
Directions:
- Make the Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the buttermilk, stirring just until a dough forms. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In another dish, place the beaten eggs, and in a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Honey Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and honey until smooth.
- Assemble the Biscuits: Slice the baked biscuits in half, spread the honey butter on each side, and place a piece of fried chicken in the middle. Close the biscuit and serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
History and Origin of Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits
Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits are a beloved Southern comfort food that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. Originating from the American South, this dish draws inspiration from traditional buttermilk biscuits and crispy fried chicken, both staples of Southern cuisine. The addition of honey butter elevates the dish, offering a sweet twist that perfectly balances the savory chicken. It’s a popular breakfast or brunch choice in many Southern households and has gained nationwide appeal thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Biscuits: For the fluffiest biscuits, make sure your butter is cold before incorporating it into the flour. Cold butter creates steam as it bakes, leading to light, flaky layers.
- Chicken: Pound the chicken pieces to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. This also makes them easier to fit onto the biscuits.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in the flour mixture. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds depth of flavor to the crispy coating.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) when frying. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through; if it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Honey Butter: Soften the butter before mixing it with honey for a smooth, spreadable consistency. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the honey butter.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Honey Butter: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey butter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Incorporate shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese into the biscuit dough for a cheesy twist.
- Herbed Chicken: Mix fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the chicken’s breading for added flavor.
- Maple Butter Alternative: Substitute maple syrup for honey in the butter for a rich, earthy sweetness.
- Grilled Chicken Option: For a lighter version, use grilled chicken instead of fried chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Breakfast: Serve these biscuits alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast.
- Brunch Spread: Pair them with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad for a delightful brunch menu.
- Savory Dessert: Add an extra drizzle of honey over the assembled biscuits and serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for a unique dessert option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Store leftover biscuits and chicken separately in airtight containers. The biscuits can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, while the chicken should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. For the chicken, use an air fryer or oven to retain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it can become soggy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is approximately 450 kcal, making it a satisfying meal. While it’s not a low-calorie dish, you can lighten it up by baking the chicken or using low-fat buttermilk for the biscuits.
What Makes Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits Special?
Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits are the ultimate combination of sweet and savory flavors. The tender and crispy fried chicken provides a rich and flavorful crunch, while the buttery, flaky biscuits melt in your mouth. The honey butter adds a sweet and creamy layer that ties the dish together. This recipe is not just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that feels like a warm hug from Southern cooking. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this dish is versatile, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits
- Biscuits:
- Made with all-purpose flour and buttermilk, the biscuits are flaky and soft, providing the perfect base for the crispy chicken. Buttermilk adds tanginess, which complements the honey butter.
- Cold unsalted butter is essential for creating those desirable flaky layers.
- Chicken:
- Chicken breast is lean, tender, and easy to work with. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Panko breadcrumbs make the coating extra crispy, creating that signature crunch.
- Honey Butter:
- Honey is naturally sweet and pairs beautifully with savory dishes. Its slightly floral notes elevate the flavor of the chicken and biscuit combination.
- Butter provides richness and creaminess, making this spread irresistible.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Keep Your Butter Cold: When making the biscuits, use cold butter. If it starts to soften, pop the dough into the fridge for a few minutes. Cold butter creates steam while baking, leading to flaky layers.
- Don’t Overmix: Overworking the biscuit dough can make it tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Season Generously: The chicken breading mixture should be well-seasoned to ensure the chicken has bold, delicious flavor in every bite.
- Control Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) ensures the chicken fries evenly and stays crispy. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Make It Your Own
- Add Spices: For a spicier version, mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour coating.
- Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken with turkey breast, pork cutlets, or even fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Savory Twist: Add shredded cheddar cheese or chopped herbs like chives to the biscuit dough for a savory variation.
- Sweet Upgrade: Drizzle additional honey over the assembled biscuit for a sweeter flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drinks: Serve with freshly brewed iced tea, a creamy latte, or a refreshing lemonade for the perfect pairing.
- Sides: Complement the meal with a side of roasted potatoes, a mixed greens salad, or fresh fruit for a well-rounded plate.
- Dessert: Finish your meal with a light dessert like fruit salad, a vanilla parfait, or a slice of lemon pound cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. - Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the biscuits a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before assembling. - How do I store leftovers?
Store biscuits and chicken separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate the chicken and keep the biscuits at room temperature. Assemble just before serving for the best texture. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze the biscuits and cooked chicken pieces separately. Reheat the biscuits in the oven and the chicken in an air fryer or oven for the best results.
Fun Facts About This Dish
- Biscuits and fried chicken are traditional staples of Southern cuisine, but combining them with honey butter gives this dish a modern, gourmet twist.
- Honey has been used as a natural sweetener for thousands of years and adds both flavor and nutrition to dishes like this one.
Conclusion
Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits are a comforting Southern classic that combines flaky biscuits, crispy fried chicken, and sweet honey butter into one irresistible dish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize to your taste.
With simple ingredients and a balance of sweet and savory flavors, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!