Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is one of those dishes that turns simple weeknight grilling into something truly special The combination of juicy chicken thighs marinated in hot honey and spices makes every bite satisfying and bold This recipe is my go to any time I want to treat friends and family to something that tastes like summer with just the right balance of sweet and heat

This dish rescued me during a family barbecue when I needed something impressive but fast The moment we tasted that sticky spicy glaze everyone was hooked and we have not tired of it since

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: choose fresh organic if possible for the juiciest most flavorful results
• Hot honey: adds the signature heat and sweetness use store bought or make your own by infusing honey with chili flakes
• Olive oil: keeps the chicken moist on the grill use a fruity extra virgin if you can
• Apple cider vinegar: balances flavor with a dose of brightness and a touch of tang
• Garlic powder: easy to distribute and brings earthy savor pick organic for best aroma
• Onion powder: deepens savoriness opt for fresh stocking and fine ground
• Smoked paprika: gives gentle warmth and smoky undertones Spanish smoked paprika offers richness
• Salt: accentuates flavors use kosher or flaky sea salt
• Black pepper: gives bite freshly ground is best for aroma
• Red pepper flakes: optional for those extra bold heat lovers use high quality flakes so heat is clean not bitter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:

Combine hot honey olive oil apple cider vinegar garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt black pepper and red pepper flakes in a large bowl Whisk until smooth and well blended to ensure each bite of chicken is evenly coated

Marinate the Chicken:

Add chicken thighs to the bowl Turn them to fully coat Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to eight hours Longer marinating infuses more flavor and tenderness

Prepare the Grill:

Heat your grill to medium high To get beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking brush the grates with oil Let the grill fully preheat before cooking

Grill the Chicken:

Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off Arrange chicken on the grill in a single layer Cook for six to seven minutes per side turning when the edges look golden and caramelized Check for doneness by ensuring internal temperature is one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit This guarantees juiciness without overcooking

Rest and Finish:

Let chicken rest five minutes on a platter after grilling This allows juices to redistribute Drizzle a little extra hot honey over the top for an extra glossy spicy finish Slice or serve whole

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My favorite part is the smoky aroma of the paprika mingling with sweet honey on the grill It always reminds me of summer evenings spent laughing with family around the picnic table My kids fight over the last sticky piece every time

Storage Tips

Leftover grilled chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to four days Store in an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor For easy weekday lunches I slice it and pack with fresh greens If you want to freeze wrap individual portions tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have hot honey you can make your own by warming regular honey and stirring in red pepper flakes and a pinch of cayenne Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs but watch closely to avoid overcooking For a different twist swap smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a deeper smoky kick

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled corn and tangy coleslaw or pile over a fresh green salad The sweet and spicy glaze also pairs well with roasted potatoes or tucked into a sandwich with crisp lettuce and pickles You can slice leftovers and use in wraps or grain bowls for quick lunches

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Cultural and Historical Context

Hot honey has roots in both Southern American and Italian cuisine putting sweet spicy condiments on fried foods and pizzas This recipe embraces that tradition transforming simple chicken into a joyful celebratory meal made right on the grill

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent chicken thighs from drying out on the grill?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour and avoid overcooking. Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy.

→ Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Yes, swap regular honey and add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for gentle heat if desired.

→ What can I serve with hot honey chicken?

Pair with grilled corn, salads, roasted vegetables, or rice to complement the sweet and spicy flavors.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.

→ How spicy is the final result?

Heat can be adjusted by using less hot honey or omitting red pepper flakes for a milder profile.