### Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

**Description:**
Indulge in these crispy Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches, featuring juicy fried chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk, coated in a flavorful spice blend, and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy coleslaw, these sandwiches are a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

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**Ingredients:**

– **For the Chicken:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

– **For the Sandwiches:**
– 4 brioche buns
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– Pickles for garnish (optional)

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**Instructions:**

**1. Preparing the Chicken:**
– In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
– Add the chicken thighs to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

**2. Preparing the Breading:**
– In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
– After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to create a good crust.
– Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack or plate and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to help the breading adhere.

**3. Frying the Chicken:**
– In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
– Carefully add the breaded chicken thighs to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
– Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

**4. Making the Hot Honey Sauce:**
– In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and hot sauce. Stir well and heat gently for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Adjust hot sauce to your preferred spice level.

**5. Assembling the Sandwiches:**
– Toast the brioche buns until golden brown.
– On the bottom half of each bun, place a piece of fried chicken. Top with a slice of cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly.
– Drizzle a generous amount of hot honey sauce over the chicken and cheese.
– Add a handful of coleslaw for crunch and a refreshing contrast.
– If desired, add pickles for extra tang. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich.

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**Notes:**
– Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
– For homemade coleslaw, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and your favorite dressing.

**Prep Time:** 1 hour (plus marinating time)
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
**Yield:** 4 sandwiches

Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches!