Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Hot Honey Sauce:

1/2 cup honey
1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a richer sauce)

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Flour Coating:

In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. For extra crispiness, you can double-dip by returning the chicken to the buttermilk and then back to the flour mixture.
Fry the Chicken:

Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C).
Fry the chicken in batches, without overcrowding, for about 12-15 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Make the Hot Honey Sauce:

In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Heat over low heat until the honey is warmed through and the ingredients are well combined. If desired, stir in butter for a richer sauce.
Serve.

Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the crispy fried chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.