Utah

Beehive Honey Fried Chicken

Celebrating the Beehive State's official symbol, this Utah fried chicken features local honey in the buttermilk brine and a beautiful honey glaze finish. It's sweet, crispy, and pays homage to Utah's proud beekeeping tradition and the industry that helped early settlers thrive.

⏱ Total 1hr 45min 🍴 Serves 6 🍯 Honey Glazed 🐝 Beehive State

Equipment Needed

🍳 Large Cast Iron Skillet
🥣 Mixing Bowls
🌡 Thermometer
🥚 Wire Rack
📤 Pastry Brush

Instructions

1

Make the honey brine: Whisk together buttermilk, 1/4 cup honey, and salt. Add chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Tip: The honey in the brine tenderizes the meat and adds subtle sweetness that will complement the glaze.
2

Prepare seasoned flour: Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

3

Make the honey glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, butter, salt, and cayenne (if using). Warm over low heat until butter melts. Keep warm.

4

Heat the oil: Pour oil into a large cast iron skillet to 1 inch depth. Heat to 350°F (175°C).

5

Dredge the chicken: Remove chicken from brine, let excess drip off. Coat thoroughly in seasoned flour. Rest 5 minutes.

6

Fry the chicken: Fry chicken pieces 12-15 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F. Work in batches.

7

Drain briefly: Transfer to wire rack for 1-2 minutes while still very hot.

8

Apply the honey glaze: Using a pastry brush, generously coat hot chicken with warm honey glaze. Let drip naturally.

9

Double glaze: Wait 2 minutes, then apply a second coat for maximum honey flavor and beautiful sheen.

10

Serve Beehive style: Arrange on a platter with extra honey on the side. Pair with funeral potatoes, Jell-O salad, and fresh-baked rolls for an authentic Utah meal.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Use Utah honey: Local Utah honey from Cache Valley or the Wasatch region has distinctive floral notes that make this dish special.
  • Honey in the brine: This step infuses sweetness throughout the meat, not just on the surface.
  • Don't overheat the glaze: Honey burns easily. Keep it warm over very low heat.
  • Glaze while hot: The honey adheres best to piping hot chicken.
  • Beehive symbolism: The beehive represents industry and hard work - values cherished by Utah's pioneers.
  • Pair with fry sauce: Utah's famous fry sauce makes a surprising but delicious dipping option.
Back to Utah Browse All Fried Chicken