Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a must-try for any BBQ lover! This dish combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with a sweet and spicy honey buffalo sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these thighs will be the star of your table. The juicy texture and vibrant flavor make them perfect for any occasion, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and buffalo sauce creates a unique sweet and spicy taste that elevates your chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair these thighs with rice, salads, or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with an irresistible BBQ dish that’s sure to be a hit at parties and gatherings.
• Healthy Choice: Chicken thighs are not only delicious but also packed with protein, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that everything goes smoothly while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill gives the chicken its signature smoky flavor while allowing for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining sauces and marinating the chicken effectively.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly to an internal temperature of 165-170 degrees.

Ingredients

Amazing BBQ chicken thighs grilled low and slow to perfection and finished with a honey buffalo sauce. You are going to absolutely love this juicy grilled sweet and spicy chicken!

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup Buffalo Sauce
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)

Seasoning

• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Parsley (dried)

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions (optional garnish)

this recipe

How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and dried parsley on all sides. Take 2 tablespoons of the honey buffalo sauce from your earlier mixture and toss it with the thighs until they are fully coated.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill to medium-low heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the chicken thighs on the grill with the smooth side facing down. Remember, grilling low and slow is key to achieving juicy and tender chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Turn the chicken thighs every 3-4 minutes. Continue this process until you see clear juices running from the meat, indicating they’re done. The internal temperature should reach between 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit. During the last few flips, baste the chicken thighs with more of your honey buffalo sauce for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once cooked through, serve your Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs warm. Top them off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions alongside your favorite grilling side dishes! Enjoy your flavorful masterpiece!

How to Serve Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the heat of the honey buffalo sauce perfectly.

On a Bun

• Buffalo Chicken Sandwich – Serve the grilled thighs on toasted buns with lettuce and ranch dressing for a tasty sandwich option.
• Slider Bites – Cut chicken into smaller pieces and serve on mini buns as sliders, perfect for parties or gatherings.

Accompaniments

• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a comforting side that soaks up extra sauce.
• Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter offers a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken.

How to Perfect Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

To achieve the best results with your grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate for Flavor – Letting the chicken soak in the honey buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor.
• Use Medium-Low Heat – Cooking over medium-low heat ensures even cooking without drying out the meat.
• Baste Frequently – Regularly basting with honey buffalo sauce keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Check Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165-170°F for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving – Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices for maximum tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with your grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs can create a well-rounded meal. Here’s a list of delicious sides that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread provides a buttery crunch that pairs well with spicy chicken.
2. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans add depth and flavor to your BBQ plate.
3. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an irresistible side choice.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring freshness to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies is nutritious and adds texture.
6. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad offers a comforting touch that balances out spiciness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to soak in the honey buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling for a more flavorful dish.
• Grilling on High Heat: Cooking chicken thighs over high heat can result in burnt outsides and raw insides. Always grill low and slow for juicy, tender meat.
• Neglecting to Baste: Forgetting to baste with sauce during grilling means missing out on extra flavor. Make sure to brush the honey buffalo sauce on during the last few flips for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Not Letting it Rest: Cutting into chicken right off the grill can cause juices to run out. Allow your grilled honey buffalo chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they have cooled down before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

• Place chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place thighs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and warm chicken thighs for several minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more buffalo sauce or mix in some crushed red pepper flakes into your marinade.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless breasts or drumsticks; just adjust cooking time accordingly as different cuts cook differently.

What sides pair well with Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs?

Delicious sides include coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans which complement the sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.

How long should I marinate Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs?

For best results, marinate your chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better if you have time!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adjusting spice levels or adding different herbs. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy every juicy bite!