Honey Pecan Fried Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate blend of savory and sweet with this irresistible Honey Pecan Fried Chicken recipe. Juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks are marinated in tangy buttermilk and hot sauce, then coated with a flavorful blend of seasoned flour and finely chopped pecans for an extra-crispy crust. Each piece is fried to golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of warm honey, creating a heavenly balance of crunch, spice, and sweetness. Perfect for family gatherings or a weekend treat, this fried chicken takes comfort food to the next level with its nutty, honey-kissed twist. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a meal that's sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup pecans
• 1 cup honey
• 4 cups neutral frying oil (vegetable or canola oil)
• 2 eggs
• 0.5 cup milk

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2

In a medium-sized food processor, add the pecans and pulse until they are finely chopped but not fully ground. Set aside.

Step 3

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 4

In a shallow dish, beat the eggs and milk together to create an egg wash.

Step 5

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dip each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and back into the flour mixture.

Step 6

After the final coating of flour, press the finely chopped pecans onto each chicken piece to ensure a crunchy pecan layer adheres well.

Step 7

Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.

Step 8

Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each piece for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 9

Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 10

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey slightly to make it easier to drizzle.

Step 11

Drizzle the warm honey over the fried chicken just before serving for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3207.3 grams (3207.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	12901

Total Fat 1172.20g	1503%
Saturated Fat 120.20g	601%
Polyunsaturated Fat 22.70g
Cholesterol 1199mg	400%
Sodium 6910mg	300%
Total Carbohydrate 439.40g	160%
Dietary Fiber 19.00g	68%
Total Sugars 230.60g
Protein 253.20g	506%

Vitamin D 453IU	2265%
Calcium 1018mg	78%
Iron 27mg	148%
Potassium 3985mg	85%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 79.2%

Protein: 7.6%

Carbs: 13.2%