Get ready for some tasty Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs! These juicy thighs are coated in a sweet and spicy mix that makes your taste buds dance. Yum!
Every bite is a wonderful combination of honey sweetness and buffalo heat. I love making extra to enjoy later—if they last that long! 😂
These thighs are super easy to make. Just grill them up and enjoy with your favorite sides. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer other cuts, boneless chicken breasts work too, but thighs are my favorite for their tenderness.
Buffalo Sauce: If you want less heat, look for mild buffalo sauce options. You can also make your own using hot sauce mixed with a little butter!
Honey: Honey brings sweetness, balancing the spicy buffalo sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes for a different sweetness and flavor.
Olive Oil: Provides moisture to the chicken. Avocado oil is a great alternative if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tang. You can swap it for white vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have it on hand.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder would work as well.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key for enhancing its flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over it.
- Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; overnight is ideal for deeper flavor.
Make sure the chicken is thoroughly covered in the marinade. This helps infuse the flavors evenly.
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. If you can, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor! When it’s time to grill, expect about 15 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 25 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined into a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight if you want a bolder flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any extra sauce drip off. Be sure to throw away the leftover marinade to keep things safe.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nice char on the outside.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, move it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken as you like. Finally, sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving when grilling, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so monitor the internal temperature to avoid drying them out.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of buffalo sauce, you can create a similar flavor by mixing hot sauce with some melted butter and a little vinegar. Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of hot sauce based on your preference.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
