These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat that’s both spicy and sweet! The tangy buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the sticky honey, making your taste buds dance!
Who doesn’t love chicken that’s got a kick? I could eat these all week! Pair them with some veggies or rice for a quick meal that feels like a feast. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs give the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use skinless thighs, but they may dry out more easily on the grill. I suggest sticking with thighs for the best results!
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the heat. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, maple syrup can be an excellent substitute. It brings a unique flavor that pairs well, too.
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any favorite hot sauce works. If you like it spicier, try sauces like Sriracha or make your own blend. Just adjust the quantity based on your heat preference!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have any, you can swap it with white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are staples here. If you want to mix it up, try adding a bit of cayenne for extra heat or smoked salt for more depth.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful When Grilling?
The key to juicy, flavorful chicken lies in marinating and grilling correctly. First, let’s talk about marinating: letting chicken sit in the marinade for at least an hour, preferably overnight, allows those flavors to soak in beautifully.
- In your marinade, ensure a good balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements. The honey and hot sauce work magic together!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high and keep an eye on the heat. You want an even cook but don’t want to burn the skin. Oil the grill grates to avoid sticking before placing the chicken on.
- For extra juiciness, avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it sit skin-side down until it easily releases from the grates, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes!
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should be 165°F (74°C). Resting it for a few minutes post-grill allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and marinating, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for grilling. Although it’s quick to prep, marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you have the time) helps enhance the flavor. So, with some patience, you’ll end up with deliciously juicy and flavorful chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This creates a tasty marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have extra time, marinate it overnight to allow the flavors to really soak in.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off, and discard the leftover marinade.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is nice and crispy and the chicken easily releases from the grill grates. Flip the chicken thighs over and reduce the heat to medium. Grill for another 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Just before serving, garnish your delicious chicken thighs with sliced green onions. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken thighs! Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 12-14 minute mark, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Marinade?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce or mix in a bit of barbecue sauce for sweetness without the heat. Conversely, for more spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a hotter sauce.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight is a great way to enhance the flavors. Just make sure to store the chicken in the refrigerator to prevent any issues with food safety. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 1 hour will still impart good flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the grill over low heat to keep it juicy. Just make sure to add a little moisture if reheating to avoid drying it out!
