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Experience the ultimate BBQ delight with these Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs. Grilled to perfection and finished with a finger-licking honey buffalo sauce, these chicken thighs are juicy, sweet, and spicy—a true crowd-pleaser.
I first made these chicken thighs for a family BBQ, and they were an instant hit. The blend of smoky grill flavors with the sweet and spicy sauce is simply irresistible.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe, but chicken breasts work well too. Thighs stay juicier on the grill.
- Buffalo Sauce: Franks Red Hot is highly recommended, but any favorite buffalo sauce will do. It provides the spicy kick.
- Honey: Local raw honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances the sauce with a robust, aromatic flavor. Substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Green Onions: Fresh chopped green onions add a mild, oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
- Black Pepper: Fresh cracked black pepper adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Salt: Sea salt is preferred, but any salt will do to enhance the flavors.
- Parsley: Dried or fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
Tools to Have on Hand
- Grill: Essential for cooking the chicken thighs to perfection.
- Measuring Cups + Spoons: For accurately measuring all ingredients.
- Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken while grilling.
- Basting Brush: Helps to baste the chicken with the honey buffalo sauce.
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, honey, and minced garlic. This sweet and spicy mixture will be the star of the dish.
- Season the Chicken
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and parsley on all sides. Add 2 tablespoons of the honey buffalo sauce and toss thighs to fully coat. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Preheat the Grill
- Heat your grill to medium-low heat. A consistent, moderate heat is key to cooking the chicken thoroughly without drying it out.
- Grill the Chicken
- Once the grill is hot, place the chicken thighs smooth side down. Grilling low and slow is the secret to juicy and tender chicken.
- Turn and Baste
- Turn the chicken thighs over every 3-4 minutes. Continue this process until the chicken juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches between 165-170°F. Baste the chicken thighs with the honey buffalo sauce during the last few turns. This builds a delicious, sticky glaze.
- Serve
- Serve the Honey Buffalo Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions and your favorite grilling side dishes. The green onions add a fresh contrast to the rich, smoky flavors.
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I love serving these chicken thighs with a side of grilled corn and coleslaw. The sweetness of the corn and the crunch of the coleslaw complement the spicy, smoky flavors of the chicken perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs with a variety of sides. A fresh side salad, grilled vegetables, or a baked potato are excellent choices. For a complete meal, add some garlic bread or cornbread.
Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option. For a different flavor profile, try adding a touch of lime juice to the honey buffalo sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven to maintain juiciness. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a must-try for any BBQ lover. The combination of sweet honey and spicy buffalo sauce, along with the smoky grill flavors, makes this dish a standout. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or a cozy family dinner, these chicken thighs are sure to impress. Fire up the grill and enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe.
- → Can I use a different type of sauce?
- Buffalo sauce is recommended, but you can use any type of hot sauce you prefer.
- → How can I make this recipe less spicy?
- Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or add more honey to balance the spiciness.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- → How long does this recipe take to prepare?
- It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling 25 minutes.