These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a perfect mix of sweet and spicy. The juicy thighs soak up the honey and buffalo sauce, making every bite a flavor party!
Cooking them on the grill adds that amazing smoky taste. I recommend serving them with some fresh veggies or a cool dip to balance the heat. Trust me, they’ll fly off the plate!🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal because they’re juicy and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can work too, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Buffalo Sauce: This spicy sauce is key to the dish’s flavor. If you want less heat, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or mix in some ketchup to tone it down. Alternatively, use Sriracha mixed with a bit of butter as a great substitute.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Maple syrup is a good alternative if you don’t have honey. Agave syrup can also work if you prefer a vegan option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil keeps the chicken moist and helps the marinade stick. Canola or vegetable oil are good substitutes if you’re out of olive oil or need a neutral flavor.
How Can I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Grilling chicken thighs can be easy! First, the marinade is crucial. Letting the chicken soak overnight helps it absorb all that flavor. When you’re ready to grill, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Start grilling skin-side down for crispy skin, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade to add more flavor.
- Cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (or longer if you prefer). Grill time is approximately 15 minutes. All together, you’ll need around 1 hour and 25 minutes, but you can let the chicken marinate overnight for more flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This delicious marinade will give your chicken a sweet and spicy kick!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and put it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, leaving it overnight will really enhance the flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
Before you grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting nice grill marks and fully cooking the chicken. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and allow the excess to drip off. Keep the leftover marinade on the side for basting later. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin is crispy and browned. Then, flip the chicken and baste the top with some of the reserved marinade. Grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your tasty Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, they will cook faster on the grill. Keep an eye on them and adjust the grilling time to around 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No worries! You can easily substitute with another hot sauce or make your own by mixing a hot sauce of your choice with a bit of vinegar and melted butter. Just adjust the heat level to your preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or briefly on the grill to keep the skin crispy again.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good whisk before using it on the chicken. Marinading the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor significantly!
