These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat, blending sweet honey and spicy buffalo sauce. They’re juicy, smoky, and sure to please any crowd!
It’s hard to resist these flavorful thighs! I love serving them with a side of fresh veggies. Plus, the grilling gives them a fun char that makes dinner feel special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for grilling as they stay juicy and flavorful. You can substitute with skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but they may cook faster and need careful monitoring.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill. If you’re looking for a healthier option, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well as substitutes.
Buffalo Sauce: The spicy and tangy flavor from buffalo sauce is signature to this dish. You can easily make a milder version by using a hot sauce mixed with a bit of ketchup or BBQ sauce if you prefer less heat.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the sauce richness. If you’d like to keep it dairy-free, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Marinade?
The marinade is key to infusing flavor into the chicken. To achieve the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal for deep, rich flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over, and ensure every piece is coated well.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate. Don’t forget to turn it occasionally if it’s in a dish.
Trust me, the extra time you take for marinating really pays off with tender, flavorful chicken!
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (overnight is best!). You’ll need an additional 15-20 minutes for grilling the chicken. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes if marinating for an hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine honey, buffalo sauce, melted butter, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them into a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, let it sit overnight for an even richer flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 375°F to 400°F. This will get the grill nice and hot for cooking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on this side before flipping. After flipping, reduce the heat to medium and grill the other side for another 6-8 minutes. During this time, brush the chicken with any leftover marinade for extra flavor.
5. Check for Doneness:
Ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through. You can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. If you like your chicken crispy, increase the heat for an extra 1-2 minutes on each side to get a nice sear.
6. Let it Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh touch!
Enjoy these flavorful grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs! Just note that chicken breasts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness at around 5-7 minutes per side on the grill, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No worries! You can make your own buffalo sauce by combining equal parts hot sauce and melted butter with a splash of vinegar, or use any spicy sauce you enjoy. Adjust the amount depending on your heat preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also add a little extra buffalo sauce to revitalize the flavor!
Can This Recipe Be Made in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Finish under the broiler for a couple of minutes if you want crispy skin!
