Honey Butter Crispy Chicken

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray

Honey Butter Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then coat each piece well in the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken for extra crispiness.
5. Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray both sides with cooking spray.
6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
7. Flip the chicken, spray lightly again, and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the honey, garlic, paprika, and cayenne (if using).
9. Brush or drizzle the warm honey butter sauce over the cooked chicken just before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes
• Macaroni and cheese
• Coleslaw
• Corn on the cob
• Biscuits
• Waffles for a sweet-and-savory meal