Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary adventure? These Sweet n Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs are not just a meal—they're a flavor experience that combines the perfect balance of sweet honey, fiery cayenne, and rich, smoky grilled goodness. Whether you're a grill master or a weekend cooking enthusiast, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress everyone at your table with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes until skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip chicken thighs and continue grilling for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent dry meat.
- Marinate Smartly: While 15 minutes of marinating works, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours can dramatically enhance flavor depth.
- Grill Management: Use medium-high heat and clean, oiled grates to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Internal Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can add a bright, fresh finish to your grilled masterpiece.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
