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Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken Thighs

honey sriracha grilled chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken thigh recipe featuring a flavorful honey, sriracha, and lime marinade that delivers a perfect balance of sweet heat and tangy brightness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds or 1.4 kg)
  • 1/4 cup honey (85g)
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional garnish: thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and slightly thick (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin (2 minutes).
  3. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them, coating each piece well. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 2 hours (do not exceed 4 hours).
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C) and lightly oil the grates (5-10 minutes).
  5. Grill chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with leftover marinade, until golden-brown and caramelized (12-16 minutes total).
  6. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, ensure juices run clear and skin is firm.
  7. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh cilantro if desired and serve.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispy skin. Do not marinate longer than 4 hours to avoid mushy texture. Use indirect heat if grill flares up. Baste with leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness. Adjust sriracha for desired spice level. Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey for vegan option. Check sriracha brand for gluten if sensitive.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey sriracha chicken, grilled chicken thighs, lime marinade, easy chicken recipe, summer barbecue, sweet and spicy chicken