These Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs are super juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet honey combined with zesty lime creates a tasty marinade that makes every bite delightful.
Grilling these thighs is a breeze, and they come out perfectly every time. I love serving them with fresh veggies for a colorful meal—who says you can’t eat pretty? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for lighter options, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used but may dry out quicker on the grill.
Honey: This sweet element is key for that sticky glaze. If you’re out, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as good substitutes. Just adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for brightness. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice is okay, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Try using lemon juice if you need a quick substitute!
Spices: Cumin and chili powder add depth. Feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a little kick if you enjoy spice.
Cilantro: This adds a fresh element. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions make decent alternatives and can brighten up the dish just as well.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Getting the chicken just right is crucial. Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour. If you have the time, overnight marinating enhances the flavors even more!
- Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken. This helps develop those lovely grill marks.
- Place the chicken skin-side down. This gives a nice crisp texture to the skin. Cook for 6-8 minutes without moving them. When it releases easily from the grill, it’s time to flip.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it off the grill. This helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to marinate, and about 15-20 minutes to grill. If you can, marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor. Altogether, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes including grilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This will create a tasty marinade that’s full of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade all over them, making sure they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you really want a flavor boost, let it sit overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot for the chicken.
4. Prepare to Grill:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. It’s important to discard the leftover marinade to keep your chicken safe to eat.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll want to cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is deliciously crispy and caramelized.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Dig into your tasty honey lime grilled chicken thighs and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs, but the cooking time may vary since skin-on chicken tends to retain moisture better. Keep an eye on them as they cook and add a few extra minutes if needed ensures they reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Limes?
No worries! You can substitute with bottled lime juice, but the flavor will be milder. Use about 2 tablespoons of bottled lime juice for every 1/4 cup if fresh limes aren’t available. Just keep in mind that fresh lime juice provides a brighter flavor!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours. However, be cautious not to exceed this, as the acidic lime juice may start to break down the chicken, making it a bit mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture!
