These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty mix of spicy and sweet! The juicy thighs soak up a yummy marinade that’s perfect for summer grilling.
I love how easy this recipe is—just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Plus, the sticky honey sauce makes clean-up worth it. Perfect for a sunny BBQ day! 🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster.
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice with a balance of heat and flavor. If you’re looking for something less spicy, try a mild hot sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a different twist.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar effect, though the flavor will change slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives richness to the marinade. If you want a dairy-free option, olive oil works well as a substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity for balance. White vinegar or lemon juice can work if apple cider vinegar is unavailable. I love using lemon for a fresh taste!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for moisture and flavor. Aim for a minimum of 1 hour, but overnight is best for maximum taste. When grilling, follow these steps to keep your chicken juicy:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to get that nice char.
- Let excess marinade drip off to avoid flare-ups but don’t rinse the chicken.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temp hits 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes post-grill; this helps the juices redistribute.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have beautifully grilled, juicy chicken thighs every time!
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (preferably Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (you can marinate it overnight for added flavor). Cooking on the grill will take another 15 minutes or so. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy these delicious grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the hot sauce, honey, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring that each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour; if you have the time, letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). While the grill is heating, take the chicken out of the marinade. Allow any excess marinade to drip off and discard the leftover marinade.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. We’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll want them to have a nice char, which adds to the flavor!
5. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your tasty grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 4-6 minute mark per side. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to reduce the heat, you can use less hot sauce or mix in some additional honey. Alternatively, for more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a bit of chopped fresh jalapeño to the marinade!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are covered well to prevent any contamination. The longer marinating time will enhance the flavor even more!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
