These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat with a perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. The chicken gets all charred on the grill, making it super juicy!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a bit of sweetness with their spice? I usually serve these with a side of veggies or on a bun for the ultimate BBQ meal—so good!
Making them is a breeze! Just marinate the chicken, pop it on the grill, and enjoy a finger-licking dinner that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs are perfect here as they stay juicy and tender while grilling. If you’re in a hurry, boneless, skinless thighs work too, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Buffalo Sauce: This adds the signature heat and flavor. For a milder version, replace it with a mild wing sauce or a mix of hot sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar. If you’re gluten-sensitive, make sure to choose a gluten-free buffalo sauce.
Honey: The sweetness from honey balances the heat of buffalo sauce. Maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re out of honey, offering a unique flavor twist. Agave syrup can also work if you prefer a vegan option.
Olive Oil: This helps in keeping the chicken moist and adds flavor. For a different taste, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both work well and bring a bit of richness.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Crispy on the Grill?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is key to great grilled chicken. Here’s how to achieve it: start with a properly preheated grill and proper cooking techniques.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This ensures the skin cooks quickly and becomes crispy.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down first. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes. This will help the skin crisp up nicely.
- After flipping, keep the heat at medium. Monitor the internal temperature so it reaches 165°F (75°C) without burning the skin. Using a meat thermometer makes this easy!
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:
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare (not including marinating time) and requires at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. The total cooking time on the grill is around 20 minutes. So, all together you’re looking at about 1 hour and 35 minutes for delicious, grilled chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined nicely. This will give your chicken that sweet and spicy flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put your chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but you can go up to 8 hours if you want even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This will help to get that nice char on the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade. Place the thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and has pretty grill marks.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over. Reduce the grill heat to medium and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the juices run clear to ensure they are fully cooked.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to keep all the juices in. Before serving, sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your tasty Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts! Just remember that they may cook faster than thighs, so keep an eye on the grill and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Also, consider marinating the breasts for a shorter time, about 30 minutes, since they can dry out more easily.
What Can I Substitute for Buffalo Sauce?
If you’re looking for a milder alternative, try using barbecue sauce mixed with a splash of hot sauce. You can also use a homemade buffalo sauce by mixing hot sauce with melted butter. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Keep any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or grill them briefly to maintain their flavor and texture.
Can I Make This on an Indoor Grill or Grill Pan?
Absolutely! An indoor grill or grill pan works well for this recipe. Just preheat it over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times. Make sure to get a nice sear on the skin for the best flavor!
