These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a tasty mix of spicy and sweet! Juicy chicken thighs grilled to perfection with a sticky honey buffalo sauce are sure to please.
Let’s be real, they’re perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners. I love to serve them with fresh veggies or a side of creamy coleslaw—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may need less cooking time.
Buffalo Sauce: Store-bought buffalo sauces are convenient and come in varied heat levels. If you want to make your own, you can mix hot sauce with melted butter and a splash of vinegar for a homemade version. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup works well, or you can use agave syrup if needed. Just keep the flavor in mind, as maple has a richer taste.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work too, but they may alter the flavor slightly. I find that smoked paprika really enhances the dish.
How Do I Get My Chicken Skin Extra Crispy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken thighs with crispy skin is all about control and timing. Starting with skin-side down allows the fat to render, making the skin crispy. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it; this helps achieve a good sear.
- Don’t flip the chicken too soon; let it cook for about 6-7 minutes until you see nice grill marks.
- Using reserved marinade for basting adds flavor and moisture while enhancing the crispy texture.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 green onion, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (or overnight if you want even more flavor!). Grilling will take about 15 minutes, making the total time about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on how long you marinate the chicken. Super simple and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together really well until it’s smooth. This is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are completely coated in the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. It’s best if you let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it sit overnight for a super tasty result.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures you get that nice sear on the chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any extra sauce drip off. Keep that leftover marinade because we’ll use it for basting while grilling!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin gets nice and crispy and you see beautiful grill marks. Flip the chicken over and baste with the reserved marinade. Cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done cooking, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions to add a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that breasts are leaner and may dry out quicker. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No problem! You can make a simple alternative by mixing hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) with melted butter. For a milder version, use a combination of BBQ sauce and hot sauce to achieve a balanced flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through to maintain the crispy skin.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed this as the acid in the buffalo sauce may start to break down the chicken, making it mushy. Always keep it refrigerated while marinating!
