Honey BBQ Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. It’s a backyard BBQ staple that’s just as perfect for a casual weeknight dinner as it is for a weekend cookout. This recipe balances the natural sweetness of honey with the tangy depth of barbecue sauce, creating finger-licking chicken that’s juicy on the inside and caramelized on the outside.
Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Marinating 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Large mixing bowl
Grill or grill pan
Basting Brush
Tongs
Meat Thermometer
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce use your favorite brand or homemade
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks skin-on and bone-in
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs or drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat and Prep the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place it on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 10–12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Baste for Extra Flavor
While grilling, baste the chicken with the remaining marinade every 5 minutes to enhance the glaze. Be sure to stop basting during the last few minutes to avoid contamination from raw chicken juices.
Rest and Serve
Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve hot.
Pairings
This sweet and smoky chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Creamy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter and chili powder.
- Sweet potato fries or classic potato salad for a hearty side.
- A crisp, chilled lager or a honey-infused lemonade.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs or drumsticks?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well but tend to cook faster, so keep an eye on the grill to avoid drying them out. Consider butterflying thicker breasts for even cooking.
2. What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! Use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! The marinade can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. How do I get that perfect caramelized finish?
The honey in the marinade helps with caramelization, but for extra char, increase the grill heat slightly for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
