Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the heat of buffalo sauce. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish from scratch.

1. Introduction to Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, making them a favorite for many. The succulent chicken thighs are marinated in a homemade honey buffalo sauce and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a new chicken recipe to try, these grilled chicken thighs are sure to impress.

2. Ingredients Needed

To prepare Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken Thighs

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Honey

• 1/2 cup honey

Hot Sauce

• 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

Butter

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Garlic

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Olive Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and Pepper

• To taste

Optional: Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Preparing the Ingredients

Prepping the Chicken Thighs

Start by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Making the Honey Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the hot sauce and honey, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Marinating the Chicken

Combining Chicken with Honey Buffalo Sauce

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the honey buffalo sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for basting and serving.

Marinating Time and Tips

Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. Marinating overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.

5. Grilling Instructions

Preheating the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Grilling the Chicken Thighs

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess sauce drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Basting with Extra Sauce

During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken thighs with some of the reserved honey buffalo sauce. This will add extra flavor and a beautiful glaze to the chicken.

6. Serving Suggestions

Garnishing with Fresh Herbs

Once the chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing with Side Dishes

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy coleslaw. Corn on the cob and baked beans are also great barbecue sides that complement this dish.

7. Variations and Customizations

Adjusting the Heat Level

If you prefer a milder or spicier dish, adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or reduce the hot sauce for a milder flavor.

Using Different Cuts of Chicken

This recipe works well with other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks, wings, or even bone-in thighs. Adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Making it Dairy-Free

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as margarine or coconut oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

8. Tips for Success

Ensuring Chicken is Cooked Through

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken moist and tender.

Preventing Chicken from Sticking to the Grill

Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before placing the chicken on the grill. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier flipping.

Storing Leftovers Properly

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken.

9. Health Benefits of Ingredients Used

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals. Honey provides natural sweetness and antioxidants, while hot sauce and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Olive oil is a healthy fat that supports heart health.

10. Conclusion

In conclusion, Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a fantastic dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors to create a mouthwatering meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Follow the tips and variations outlined in this article to make this dish your own and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

11. FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that the cooking time may vary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. What can I use instead of hot sauce? If you don’t have hot sauce, you can use a combination of cayenne pepper, paprika, and vinegar to create a similar flavor profile.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinating for at least 1 hour is recommended, but for the best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 8 hours or overnight.

4. Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of grilling? Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. How do I make the sauce thicker? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Source: amandacooksandstyles.com