Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe
Grilled honey BBQ chicken is a friendly and delicious dish that brings outdoor cooking to your backyard. Perfectly grilled chicken breasts are coated in a delectable blend of sweet honey and tangy barbecue sauce, making it a meal everyone at the table will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This grilled honey BBQ chicken recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of honey and barbecue sauce creates a glaze that’s both sweet and savory, complementing the chicken perfectly. It’s forgiving for novice cooks and a family favorite, making it a staple for weeknight dinners, BBQ parties, or casual get-togethers. Moreover, the recipe is customizable, allowing you to tweak the flavors to match your personal preferences.
How to Make Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
Making grilled honey BBQ chicken is simple and can be completed in just a few short steps. The process begins with marinating the chicken to soak in all the delicious flavors. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and how to prepare this amazing dish.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 to 3 tablespoons sriracha (optional and to taste)
- 2 to 4 cloves garlic (finely minced or pressed)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast tenders
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional for garnishing)
Directions
- To a large zip-top plastic bag, add all ingredients except the optional fresh herbs. Seal the bag and squish the contents around so the chicken is evenly coated.
- Place the bag in the fridge to marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is great if you can plan ahead).
- Preheat an outdoor grill (or grill pan if making inside) to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 7 minutes or until done, flipping intermittently to ensure even cooking.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Chicken is best fresh but will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months.
Pro Tips for Success with Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 1 hour is effective, letting the chicken marinate overnight will deepen the flavors significantly.
- Check Internal Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: Cook the chicken in batches if you’re grilling a lot to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality barbecue sauce will enhance the taste of your dish.
- Baste While Grilling: If desired, brush extra marinade onto the chicken while it cooks for added flavor.
Flavor Variations for Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
- Spicy Honey BBQ: Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a delightful kick.
- Herbed Honey BBQ: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for an earthy flavor.
- Citrus Honey BBQ: Replace the lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a zesty twist.
- Smoky BBQ: Incorporate smoked paprika into your marinade for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
Grilled honey BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- A fresh garden salad
- Coleslaw for a crunch
- Baked beans for a hearty addition
- Garlic bread or rolls to soak up any extra sauce
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
To store grilled honey BBQ chicken, allow the chicken to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it—simply wrap each chicken piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken will keep well in the freezer for up to 4 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly on the grill or in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
FAQ About Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a more flavorful and juicy option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
What should I serve with grilled honey BBQ chicken?
This dish pairs excellently with sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad. The sweetness of the chicken complements tangy or savory sides beautifully.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour. However, letting it marinate overnight is even better as it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe with tofu or vegetables?
Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version. Marinate the tofu or veggies in the same sauce, and grill until charred and tender.
Is grilling the best cooking method for chicken?
Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor and nice char to the chicken. However, you can also bake or sauté the chicken if you don’t have access to a grill—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Grilled honey BBQ chicken is an outstanding recipe that everyone can enjoy. Its combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with its easy preparation, makes it a go-to choice for many occasions. Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer BBQ gathering, this dish will surely delight taste buds and create lasting memories. So fire up that grill, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade grilled honey BBQ chicken!
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Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Grilled honey BBQ chicken is a friendly and delicious dish that brings outdoor cooking to your backyard.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 to 3 tablespoons sriracha (optional and to taste)
- 2 to 4 cloves garlic (finely minced or pressed)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast tenders
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional for garnishing)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the optional fresh herbs to a large zip-top plastic bag. Seal the bag and squish the contents around so the chicken is evenly coated.
- Place the bag in the fridge to marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is great if you can plan ahead).
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 7 minutes or until done, flipping intermittently to ensure even cooking.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken is best fresh but will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American