This honey glazed grilled chicken is tasty and perfect for any BBQ! The sweet glaze adds a yummy touch while the grill gives it a nice smoky flavor. You can’t go wrong with this dish!
I love how quick this chicken cooks, making it great for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with some veggies or a salad, and you have a simple, satisfying meal. Who doesn’t love a sweet twist? 🍯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They add a rich flavor but may take a little more time to cook through.
Honey: Honey gives a sweet glaze to the chicken. If you’re avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup can be great alternatives. They bring a similar sweetness and flavor.
Soy Sauce: Using low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to to control saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. Both work well in marinades!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh always tastes better! Adjust according to your taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice complements the honey. You can switch it up with lime for a different twist. Just remember that citrus adds brightness to the dish.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is a key step that boosts flavor. It not only adds taste but also keeps the chicken juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Submerge the chicken completely in the marinade using a bag or dish. This ensures every part is coated.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it gets.
Always discard any leftover marinade used on raw chicken to avoid contamination. Happy grilling!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Chicken Breasts?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 lemon, cut in half (for grilling)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken (or up to 8 hours for extra flavor). Grilling will take approximately 15 minutes. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to marinate and cook perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by mixing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, salt, and lemon zest until everything is well combined and smooth. This tasty mixture will soak into the chicken and give it a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour—if you have time, letting it marinate for up to 8 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help get those beautiful grill marks on the chicken and ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade, as it has touched raw chicken. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks forming.
5. Flip and Add Lemon:
Carefully flip the chicken over and place the halved lemon pieces on the grill as well. Grill the chicken for another 5-7 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is cooked through.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken and grilled lemon from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken nice and juicy! Squeeze the grilled lemon over the top of the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. If you wish, sprinkle with fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the honey glazed grilled chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or rice. Enjoy your meal with friends and family!
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Yes! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey in this recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. If using a liquid sweetener, you can use the same amount as the honey called for in the recipe.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for anywhere from 1 hour to 8 hours for maximum flavor. If you marinate it for longer than 8 hours, the acidity from the vinegar and lemon zest might start to break down the chicken too much, resulting in a mushy texture, so keep an eye on the time!
What’s the Best Way to Check if the Chicken is Cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should read 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have one, check that the juices run clear when cut into the chicken; it should not be pink inside.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey glazed grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or heat it gently on the stove. If it seems dry, a splash of chicken broth or a little olive oil can help keep it moist!
