This recipe combines the irresistible crunch of fried chicken with a sweet and spicy honey glaze, perfectly paired with creamy buttermilk mac and cheese. This dish is sure to become a favorite for family gatherings or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Sweet & Spicy Fried Chicken:
- For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- For Frying:
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
- For the Honey Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (like Frank’s or Sriracha)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For the Buttermilk Mac & Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)