# Directions:
01 - Whisk together buttermilk and 1 teaspoon hot sauce in a bowl. Add chicken thighs, turning to coat completely. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes, or refrigerate up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
02 - In a separate large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
03 - Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Press each piece firmly into the flour mixture, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.
04 - Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven. Heat to 350°F, maintaining temperature throughout frying.
05 - Cook chicken in batches without overcrowding. Fry for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain.
06 - While chicken fries, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in honey, hot sauce, cayenne, and salt until smooth and heated through.
07 - Arrange fried chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with hot honey butter sauce and serve immediately while hot and crispy.