These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a delicious mix of sweet and spicy! The honey gives a nice touch to the zesty buffalo sauce, making every bite a treat.
I love how juicy the chicken thighs stay on the grill. Pair them with some crispy veggies, and you’ll have a meal that’s fun to eat and hard to forget! 🍗🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are tender and juicy, making them ideal for grilling. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, but cooking times may vary.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps balance the heat of the buffalo sauce. If you need a substitute, try maple syrup or agave nectar, which will give a similar sweet profile.
Buffalo Sauce: This is the star of the dish! Choose a sauce with your favorite heat level. For a milder option, you can mix less spicy hot sauce with some barbecue sauce. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use a plant-based hot sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can use garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon) instead, but fresh is always best for that aromatic punch.
Green Onions: These are great for garnishing, adding a nice crunch and freshness. If you don’t have green onions, try chives or even a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Basting while grilling adds flavor, but too much marinade can cause flare-ups.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, but don’t rush it! Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. This also prevents overcooking, keeping the thighs juicy.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (your choice of heat level)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 3 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour for marinating, but overnight is best for richer flavor. Then, you’ll need about 15-20 minutes for grilling. So, it’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the honey, buffalo sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to blend the flavors. This delicious marinade will give your chicken a sweet and spicy kick!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to your bowl and make sure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or better yet, overnight. This step lets the flavors soak in nicely!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken gets that nice char and tender texture.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Save the marinade to brush on later for added flavor!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). This will make sure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
6. Baste for Extra Flavor:
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush some of the reserved marinade over the chicken thighs. This will enhance the flavor and add a nice glaze.
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken thighs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh and colorful touch. Serve your Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs and enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and spice!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but they will require a longer cooking time. Aim for about 8-10 minutes per side, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No worries! You can make a substitute by mixing hot sauce with melted butter in a 2:1 ratio. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your liking!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re short on time!
Can I Grill These in the Oven?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a grill, use the broiler in your oven. Preheat the broiler, place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil, and broil for about 6-8 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C)!
