Honey Fried Chicken Bites

Level: Easy
Yield: 6 servings
Nutritional Analysis Per Serving (Serving Size: 1 of 6 servings): Calories 1130, Total Fat 86 g, Saturated Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 57 g, Dietary Fiber 2 g, Sugar 25 g, Protein 34 g, Cholesterol 136 mg, Sodium 1029 mg
Total: 2 hr 25 min
Active: 20 min

Imagine crispy, golden Honey Fried Chicken Bites that burst with sweet-tangy flavorperfect for game day or any craving! The irresistible blend of honey and pickle brine (sweet, tangy, salty perfection) coats juicy thigh meat for ultimate crunch. A hint of buttermilk in the flour creates that shaggy, extra-crispy texture you'll love. Ready to fry up some magic?

cup buttermilk
cup plus 2 tablespoons dill pickle brine, plus 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickle
4 tablespoons hot sauce
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
cup honey
2 cups self-rising flour
1 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 cup vegetable shortening

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Special equipment:

A deep-fat fry thermometer

Combine cup buttermilk, cup pickle brine, 2 tablespoons hot sauce, teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken pieces, seal, and shake to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for max flavor.
Whisk honey, chopped pickles, remaining 2 tablespoons each pickle brine and hot sauce in a large bowl until smooth and glossy.
In another bowl, whisk flour, paprika, mustard, teaspoon salt, and teaspoon pepper. Add remaining cup buttermilk; rub in with fingers for shaggy texture that crisps like a dream.
Fill a wide Dutch oven with 2 inches oil plus shortening. Heat to 350F with thermometer attached. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and a rack.
Drain chicken (don't pat dry). Press into flour mixture for full coverage; let rest on a plate. Redredge if soggy.
Fry in batches until deep golden and 170F internal (about 4 minutes). Drain on sheet; sprinkle with salt.
Toss hot chicken in honey sauce. Serve in paper cones with toothpicksirresistible bites await!