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Savory Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs

honey garlic grilled chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy grilled chicken thighs slathered in a sticky, sweet-savory honey garlic glaze that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds / 1.4 kg)
  • 1/3 cup honey (about 113 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced fresh
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (60 ml) or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar (30 ml)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up. Lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk well until smooth. (Approx. 3 minutes)
  3. Pour half of the honey garlic glaze over the chicken thighs. Toss or brush to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. (Approx. 5 minutes prep + marinating time)
  4. Heat your grill to medium-high (around 375°F to 400°F / 190°C to 204°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. (Approx. 10 minutes)
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, turning once, until the skin is crispy and charred in spots. Use tongs to flip carefully. (Approx. 15 minutes)
  6. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the remaining glaze generously on both sides every 2 minutes to build up that sticky coating. Watch for flare-ups and move chicken if necessary. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to check juices run clear. (Approx. 1 minute)
  8. Transfer grilled thighs to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and the glaze set perfectly. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  9. Serve warm with your favorite sides. Spoon any extra glaze from the plate over the chicken for more sticky goodness.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Baste glaze only during the last 5 minutes of grilling to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Rest chicken after grilling to redistribute juices. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. If grilling indoors, use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, grilled chicken thighs, sticky glaze chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer barbecue, backyard cookout