The Hot Honey Chicken Plate is a vibrant, flavorful dish inspired by the popular Sweetgreen salad bowl, featuring tender, grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, served alongside fresh greens, roasted veggies, and other delicious toppings. The combination of the spicy-sweet chicken with the crunch of the veggies and the creamy dressing creates a balanced and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and indulgent.
I first made this Hot Honey Chicken Plate when I was craving a meal that was both light and flavorful but still had a bit of indulgence to it, and it quickly became a go-to favorite. The chicken, with its crispy edges and tangy-sweet glaze, perfectly complemented the fresh veggies and grains. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can swap out the veggies, change the greens, or add in extra toppings like avocado or nuts for even more flavor and texture.
What’s great about the Hot Honey Chicken Plate is its versatility and ease. You can prep the chicken and toppings in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s also packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal that satisfies. Whether you’re recreating your favorite salad from Sweetgreen or just looking for a fresh new dish, this Hot Honey Chicken Plate is sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Casual meals
- Family dinners
- Weeknight dinners
- Comfort food lovers
- Fans of sweet and spicy combinations
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Hot Honey Chicken Plate will become your new favorite meal:
- Sweet and Spicy Perfection: The hot honey glaze offers the perfect combination of heat and sweetness that’ll keep you coming back for more.
- Crispy Chicken: The chicken is fried to a crispy perfection while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute meals.
- Satisfying Meal: With a side of crispy fries and fresh greens, this plate offers a well-rounded, fulfilling meal.
- Bold Flavor: The hot honey glaze adds an exciting layer of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of heat in the glaze to suit your taste—more chili for extra spice or less for a milder version.
- One-Dish Wonder: The chicken and sides all come together on one plate, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s a comforting fried chicken plate, but the hot honey gives it a new twist.
- Perfect for Sharing: Serve this dish to friends or family, and watch everyone dig in!
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep the chicken in advance and just glaze and serve when ready for a stress-free dinner.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 30g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
The Hot Honey Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Sides:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup crispy fries (store-bought or homemade)
Ingredient Highlights
- Hot Sauce: Provides the kick to the glaze, complementing the sweetness of the honey.
- Buttermilk: Ensures the chicken stays moist and tender while giving the crust a crunchy texture.
- Honey: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness to the spicy glaze.
- Paprika and Garlic Powder: Give the chicken a delicious seasoning base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk mixture, then coat with the seasoned flour mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix together honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer: Heat the mixture over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until well combined and slightly thickened.
- Coat the Chicken: Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the crispy chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Assemble the Plate:
- Prepare the Sides: Arrange the mixed greens and crispy fries on each plate.
- Serve the Chicken: Place the glazed chicken breasts on top of the greens and serve with the fries.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or extra red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Hot Honey Chicken Plate:
- As a Quick Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a satisfying, flavorful meal after a long day.
- For a Family Feast: Serve with extra sides like mashed potatoes or a corn on the cob for a larger meal.
- As a Party Platter: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for a tasty appetizer at gatherings.
- With Fresh Lemon Slices: Add a burst of freshness by serving with a few lemon wedges.
- For a Spicy Kick: Add extra hot sauce or chili flakes for those who love heat.
- With Creamy Dips: Pair the chicken with ranch or blue cheese dressing for an indulgent side.
- As a BBQ Side: Serve alongside your favorite BBQ dishes for a flavorful combination.
- For Meal Prep: Pack the chicken and sides in meal prep containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
- With a Cold Beverage: Pair with a cold soda or lemonade for a refreshing balance to the spice.
- On a Picnic: Take this dish outdoors for a hearty and portable meal.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Glaze Heat: Increase or decrease the hot sauce in the glaze depending on your spice tolerance.
- Ensure Crispy Chicken: Let the chicken rest on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep it crispy.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken hot and glazed for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize the Sides: Add a creamy coleslaw or cornbread for a more southern-inspired meal.
- Keep Glaze Warm: If making the glaze ahead of time, keep it warm on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Plate: Swap out the hot honey glaze for a smoky BBQ sauce.
- Air-Fried Chicken: Use an air fryer for a lower-fat version of the crispy chicken.
- Grilled Hot Honey Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version of this dish.
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with crispy fried cauliflower or tofu for a plant-based option.
- Lemon-Honey Glaze: Replace the hot sauce with lemon juice for a tangy honey glaze.
- Add Veggies: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or sweet potatoes for a nutritious side.
Special Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for frying chicken to get that perfect crispy crust.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Tongs: For easy handling of the chicken while frying.
- Small Saucepan: For making the hot honey glaze.
- Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the fried chicken.
- Frying Thermometer: To monitor oil temperature for optimal frying.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well with this recipe, providing a juicier option. - Can I make the hot honey glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. - Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. - How long does this dish last in the fridge?
The chicken will last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for crispy results. - How can I make the fries crispy?
For extra crispy fries, bake them at a high temperature or double-fry them for extra crunch. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour for the breading to make the dish gluten-free. - How do I make the glaze less spicy?
Reduce the amount of hot sauce or add more honey to balance the heat. - Can I use a different type of hot sauce?
Absolutely! Choose your favorite hot sauce to personalize the glaze. - What can I serve instead of fries?
You can serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or a salad for a lighter side.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Chicken Plate brings together the irresistible crunch of fried chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that will keep you coming back for more. It’s the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, this plate will definitely satisfy your cravings and leave everyone wanting seconds. Indulge in the spicy sweetness and savor every bite!