Easy Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe

Looking for the best chicken recipe to impress your friends and family at your next backyard BBQ? Look no further! Our easy Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe is sure to become a favorite among your guests. With its delicious flavors and tender meat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Grilling chicken is a popular choice for summer gatherings, and this recipe takes it to the next level with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. The combination of smoky grill marks and caramelized glaze will make your mouth water from the moment you fire up the grill. Get ready to be crowned as the grill master!

Key Takeaways:

• Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish for backyard BBQs.  
• Marinating the chicken with a homemade BBQ sauce enhances its taste.
• Properly preparing the grill is essential for juicy and tender chicken.
• Basting the chicken with honey BBQ sauce adds a delicious glaze.

• Letting the chicken rest before serving allows the flavors to distribute evenly.

Ingredients for Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken

Before we start grilling, let's gather all the necessary ingredients for our Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken . This recipe requires basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen pantry. We will also be preparing a simple yet flavorful BBQ marinade. 

To make this delicious homemade BBQ chicken , you will need: 

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup of ketchup
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for some added heat)

These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious barbecue marinade that will coat the chicken and infuse it with a mouthwatering flavor.

Preparing the BBQ Marinade

To prepare the marinade, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk them together until well blended. The combination of ketchup, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and spices creates a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.

Pro Tip: For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Once the marinade is ready, place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the dish or bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

Now that we have gathered our ingredients and prepared the BBQ marinade, it's time to move on to the next section and learn how to marinate the chicken for optimal taste.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is an essential step in elevating its flavor to new heights. By infusing it with a homemade BBQ marinade, you can create a succulent and tantalizing dish that will impress your guests. Let's dive into the process of preparing the perfect marinade and marinating the chicken.

Preparing the Homemade BBQ Marinade

To create a flavorful and simple BBQ marinade , you'll need a few key ingredients: 

• BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a personalized touch.
• Honey: Add a touch of sweetness to balance the smoky flavours.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a vibrant and savory taste.
• Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a tangy kick to the marinade.
• Salt and pepper: Seasonings to enhance the flavours.

Once you have gathered these ingredients, it's time to mix them together. In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the marinade has a smooth consistency.

Marinating the Chicken

Now that the BBQ marinade is ready, it's time to marinate the chicken. Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the chicken: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken pieces of your choice.
2. Place the chicken in a dish: Use a shallow dish or a gallon-sized plastic bag to hold the chicken.
3. Coat the chicken: Pour the BBQ marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Use a brush or your hands to evenly distribute the marinade.
4. Cover and refrigerate: Cover the dish or seal the plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and tenderize.

Remember to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly marinated. Once the marinating time is up, your chicken is ready to be grilled to perfection.

BBQ Marinade Ingredients

Ingredients	Quantity
BBQ sauce	1/2 cup
Honey	2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced)	2 hearts
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons
Salt	1 teaspoon
Pepper	1/2 teaspoon

Now that your chicken is marinated, it's time to move on to the next step – preparing the grill. Get ready for a delightful grilling experience that will have everyone craving seconds!

Preparing the Grill

Before we fire up the grill, it's important to prepare it properly. Proper grill preparation is crucial for achieving juicy and tender chicken that will be the star of your backyard BBQ dinner. Follow these tips to ensure your grill is ready to go:

1. Start by cleaning the grill grates. Use a grill brush to remove any leftover residue or charred bits from previous grilling sessions. This ensures a clean cooking surface and prevents any unwanted flavors from transferring to your grilled chicken dinner . 
2. Next, check the gas or charcoal supply. If you're using a gas grill, make sure the propane tank is adequately filled. For charcoal grills, ensure you have enough charcoal briquettes for the entire cooking time. It's always better to have extra on hand, just in case.
3. If you're using a gas grill, check the burners for any clogs or blocks. Clear any debris or obstructions to ensure even heat distribution during cooking.
4. Preheat the grill. Turn on the burners or light the charcoal and allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures that the grill reaches the optimal cooking temperature and helps prevent sticking.
5. While the grill is preheating, apply a thin layer of oil to the grill grates. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal of the grilled chicken once it's cooked.

Once your grill is prepped and ready to go, you're one step closer to enjoying a mouthwatering backyard BBQ favorite: Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken . The next section will guide you through the grilling process, ensuring your chicken is cooked to perfection.  

Why Proper Grill Preparation Matters

Properly preparing your grill before cooking the chicken is essential for several reasons:

1. Food Safety: Cleaning the grill grates removes any bacteria or pathogens that may be present, ensuring your grilled chicken is safe to eat.

2. Flavor: Removing residue and debris from previous grilling sessions prevents unwanted flavors from affecting the taste of your chicken.

3. Even Cooking: A clean and well-prepared grill helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your chicken cooks uniformly and avoids any hot or cold spots.

4. Easy Cleanup: A properly prepped grill makes cleanup a breeze, as food is less likely

to stick to clean grates.

Advantages of Proper Grill Preparation	Benefits
Enhanced food safety	Ensures that your grilled chicken is safe to consume by removing any bacteria or pathogens
Improved flavor	Prevents unwanted residue from previous grilling sessions from impacting the taste of your chicken
Even cooking	Helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in uniformly cooked chicken without any hot or cold spots
Easier cleanup	Less sticking and easier removal of food from clean grill grates, making cleanup a breeze

Grilling the Honey BBQ Chicken

Now comes the fun part - grilling the Honey BBQ Chicken! After marinating the chicken in our homemade BBQ marinade, it's time to cook it to perfection on the grill. Grilling the chicken will give it that smoky and caramelized flavor that everyone loves.

Follow these simple steps to achieve juicy and flavorful grilled Honey BBQ Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, allowing it to cook evenly.
3. Place the chicken pieces on the preheated grill, skin-side down if using bone-in chicken.
4. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
5. While grilling, baste the chicken with the remaining Honey BBQ sauce from the marinade every few minutes. This will help build an extra layer of flavor and create a beautiful glaze.
6. Monitor the chicken closely to avoid burning. If flare-ups occur, temporarily move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill until the flames subside.
7. Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a clean plate and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the 
8. flavors to deepen.

And there you have it! Your mouthwatering Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and watch as everyone devours this delicious dish at your next backyard BBQ.

Basting with Honey BBQ Sauce

Basting the chicken with the homemade Honey BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and a gorgeous glaze. It's the perfect finishing touch to take your delicious BBQ chicken recipe to the next level. In this section, we will show you how to brush the chicken with this delectable sauce while grilling, creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet and smoky flavors.  

Brushing on the Sauce

Once your chicken is almost done grilling, it's time to brush on the Honey BBQ sauce. This step infuses the chicken with the rich flavors of honey, barbecue, and spices. The sauce caramelizes on the grill, creating a sticky glaze that enhances the taste and appearance of the chicken.

Pro Tip: Baste the chicken during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling to prevent the sugars in the sauce from burning.

How to Baste

To baste the chicken with the Honey BBQ sauce, follow these simple steps:

1. Using a basting brush or a spoon, generously brush the sauce onto both sides of the chicken.
2. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly to ensure that the flavors are well-distributed.
3. Baste the chicken every few minutes as it cooks, allowing the sauce to build up and intensify the taste.

Basting the chicken guarantees that every bite is packed with flavor. The sweet and tangy notes of the sauce complement the smoky grilled chicken perfectly, creating a taste sensation that will have your guests coming back for more.

Basting Tips and Tricks

Tip	Description
Use a silicone basting brush	Silicone brushes are heat-resistant and won't melt on the grill. They also easily distribute the sauce without damaging the chicken's skin.
Baste with care	Avoid applying excessive pressure while basting to prevent the sauce from pooling in one area or causing the chicken to stick to the grill grates.
Double-dip for extra flavor	If you want to intensify the flavor, dip the basting brush back into the sauce between brushings to apply more sauce layers.
Cook low and slow	If the sauce is burning too quickly, adjust the grill's heat and cook the chicken on a lower setting to give the flavors more time to develop.

With these basting tips and tricks, you can confidently add the Honey BBQ sauce to your grilled chicken, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The succulent flavors and caramelized glaze will make this grilled honey BBQ chicken a standout dish that everyone will love.

Letting it Rest and Serving

Once the Honey BBQ Chicken is grilled to perfection, it's important to let it rest before serving. Resting allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken. The grilled chicken dinner is worth the wait. Here's how to do it:  

1. Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a clean plate or cutting board.
2. Tent the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to retain heat and moisture.
3. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes to 15 minutes.
4. During this time, the internal temperature of the chicken will continue to rise, ensuring that it's fully cooked.

While the chicken is resting, you can use this time to prepare the plates and side dishes for your delicious BBQ chicken recipe . Here are some serving suggestions to complement your grilled honey BBQ chicken: 

Serving Suggestions:

1. Pair the grilled honey BBQ chicken with a refreshing summer salad. The crispness of the greens and the tanginess of a light vinaigrette perfectly balance the smoky flavors of the chicken.
2. Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as grilled corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers. The charred sweetness of the vegetables pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
3. For a classic BBQ feast, serve the Honey BBQ Chicken with traditional sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. This combination is sure to satisfy everyone's cravings.

Now that the chicken has rested and the sides are ready, it's time to plate up and enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken recipe . Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or simply treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, this grilled chicken dish is sure to be a hit. Remember, the key to a memorable grilled chicken dinner is patience and attention to detail.   

Enjoy your perfectly grilled, tender, and flavorful Honey BBQ Chicken!

Delicious BBQ Chicken Recipe Serving Suggestions
ServingOption	Description
Summer Salad	Pair the grilled honey BBQ chicken with a refreshing summer salad. The crispness of the greens and the tanginess of a light vinaigrette perfectly balance the smoky flavors of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables	Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as grilled corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers. The charred sweetness of the vegetables pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
Classic BBQ Feast	For a classic BBQ feast, serve the Honey BBQ Chicken with traditional sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. This combination is sure to satisfy everyone's cravings.

Tips and Variations

In this section, we have some additional tips and variations to help you customize this Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe to your taste. Whether you're looking for an easy grilled chicken recipe or want to experiment with homemade BBQ chicken flavors, we've got you covered with these suggestions:      

1. Spicy Twist

Add some heat to your grilled chicken by incorporating spicy ingredients into the marinade. Consider adding chopped jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken a fiery kick. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference for a deliciously spicy homemade BBQ chicken.

2. Citrusy Marinade

For a zesty twist, try marinating your chicken in a citrus-based marinade. Use ingredients like lemon juice, lime juice, and orange zest to give your chicken a tangy and refreshing flavor. This variation pairs well with the smoky sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.

3. Herb Infusion

Elevate the flavor profile of your grilled chicken by infusing it with herbs. Experiment with aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil. Simply chop the herbs and mix them into the marinade before letting the chicken soak up the flavors. The combination of herbs and the savory BBQ sauce will leave your taste buds craving for more.

4. Asian Fusion

Give your grilled chicken a tantalizing Asian twist by adding soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the marinade. This variation will infuse your chicken with umami flavors and a touch of oriental flair. Serve it with steamed rice and stir-fried veggies for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

5. Pineapple Paradise

Take your taste buds on a tropical journey by incorporating pineapple into your grilled chicken recipe. You can add pineapple juice to the marinade or grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken to create a juicy and tropical flavor combination. This variation is perfect for backyard BBQs and summer gatherings.

Feel free to mix and match these variations or even create your own unique twist on the classic Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe . The key is to have fun experimenting with flavors and discovering your personal grilling style. 

Tip/Variation	Description
Spicy Twist	Add some heat to your grilled chicken by incorporating spicy ingredients into the marinade. Consider adding chopped jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken a fiery kick.
Citrusy Marinade	For a zesty twist, try marinating your chicken in a citrus-based marinade. Use ingredients like lemon juice, lime juice, and orange zest to give your chicken a tangy and refreshing flavor.
Herb Infusion	Elevate the flavor profile of your grilled chicken by infusing it with herbs. Experiment with aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil.
Asian Fusion	Give your grilled chicken a tantalizing Asian twist by adding soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the marinade. This variation will infuse your chicken with umami flavors and a touch of oriental flair.
Pineapple Paradise	Take your taste buds on a tropical journey by incorporating pineapple into your grilled chicken recipe. You can add pineapple juice to the marinade or grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken to create a juicy and tropical flavor combination.

Conclusion

Congratulations on mastering the art of creating a mouthwatering Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe! This delicious dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your backyard BBQs, impressing your friends and family with its irresistible flavors and tender meat. With this recipe in your arsenal, you're ready to take on the role of the ultimate grill master!

By combining the sweetness of honey with the smokiness of the grill, this Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe elevates your backyard BBQ to new heights of culinary excellence. The juicy and succulent chicken, infused with the homemade BBQ marinade, creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or a special occasion, this recipe will undoubtedly become one of your backyard BBQ favorites . The combination of the grilled honey glaze and the perfectly charred chicken will leave your guests wanting more. 

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, you can certainly use boneless chicken breasts for this Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.

Can I make the Honey BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can! The homemade Honey BBQ sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat it before use and paste the grilled chicken with it during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

If you prefer to use a different sweetener, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly with these substitutions, but you will still achieve delicious results.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors of the BBQ marinade to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

Can I grill the chicken indoors using a grill pan or a countertop grill?

Yes, you can definitely grill the chicken indoors using a grill pan or a countertop grill. Preheat the grill pan or countertop grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for the same amount of time as specified in the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your specific indoor grilling equipment.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe to make more or fewer servings. Simply double or halve the ingredients accordingly. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you are grilling a larger or smaller quantity of chicken pieces.