These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat packed with sweet and spicy flavors. The honey adds a nice touch to the bold buffalo sauce for a mouthwatering combo!
I love how easy it is to make these juicy thighs on the grill. Perfect for summer BBQs or any day you need a little kick on your plate. Plus, they’re finger-licking good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, skinless chicken breast works, but it may dry out more easily.
Buffalo Sauce: This is the star ingredient! If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try a sweet chili sauce instead. Homemade buffalo sauce is also an option if you want to control the heat.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but maple syrup can be a great substitute. It brings a unique flavor that complements the buffalo sauce nicely.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds tanginess to the marinade. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a smoky flavor but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used. Garlic and onion powder offer convenience; you can use fresh minced garlic and onions if you prefer a more vibrant taste.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Getting that perfect grill on your chicken thighs requires a few key steps. First, always let the grill preheat. It should be medium-high before you start cooking.
- Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This keeps your chicken intact.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, checking for grill marks. An instant-read thermometer will tell you when it’s cooked — aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (preferably overnight for deeper flavor). Grill the chicken for approximately 14-15 minutes. So, overall, you’ll spend around 30 minutes active cooking time & a little waiting while it marinates!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This yummy mixture will be the marinade that makes your chicken flavorful and sticky-delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and put them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Don’t forget to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you can. The longer, the better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to brush the grill grates with a little oil to help keep the chicken from sticking. This will ensure those lovely grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade, as you won’t need it again. Now, place the chicken on the hot grill! Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You want to see those gorgeous grill marks!
5. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh and tasty finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your flavorful Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are ready to be served warm. Enjoy the spicy and sweet goodness!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs with Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster; grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level of the Buffalo Sauce?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can mix the buffalo sauce with a bit more honey to balance the heat. Conversely, if you like it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a hotter variety of buffalo sauce!
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before using. Just make sure to give it a good stir before marinating the chicken, as some ingredients may settle.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave, or you can grill them briefly to bring back the charred flavor!
