Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is a mouthwatering combination of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The marinade, made with honey, garlic, and soy sauce, gives the chicken a perfect balance of sweetness and umami, while grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Whether you’re serving it as the main dish with vegetables or using it for sandwiches or salads, this grilled chicken is sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade:

  1. Mix the Marinade:

    • In a bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and Dijon mustard (if using). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

  2. Marinate the Chicken:

    • Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Grill the Chicken:

  1. Preheat the Grill:

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on the stovetop.

  2. Grill the Chicken:

    • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.

    • Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken is golden brown with grill marks.

  3. Rest the Chicken:

    • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra tender.

To Serve:

  1. Serve and Garnish:

    • Slice the grilled chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)

  • Grilling Time: 12-16 minutes (depending on thickness)

  • Total Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (including marinating time)

Variations

  • Add Spice: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade.

  • Use Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, you can use thighs or drumsticks. Just increase the grilling time by a few minutes to ensure they cook through.

  • Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can be added to the marinade for a different flavor profile.

  • Baked Version: If you prefer baking, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. To prevent drying out, add a little bit of water or broth when reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe, as they are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well with this recipe. They will cook faster than breasts, so keep an eye on them while grilling.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time. Marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours before grilling for the best flavor.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check using a meat thermometer to ensure it is safe to eat.

5. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight freezer bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

7. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup for honey. It will give the chicken a different flavor, but it will still be sweet and delicious.

8. Can I use a grill pan if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to cook over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions.

9. Can I use a marinade injector for this recipe?

While it’s not necessary, using a marinade injector will help ensure that the marinade penetrates deeper into the chicken for even more flavor.

10. Can I serve this with a sauce?

Yes, you can serve the chicken with a simple dipping sauce, such as a garlic butter sauce or a tangy yogurt-based sauce, to complement the sweet and savory flavors.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet, savory marinade and tender grilled chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Whether for a casual dinner, BBQ, or meal prep, this chicken will be a hit!

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Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Total Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and honey, creating a deliciously caramelized exterior while remaining moist and tender inside. This easy and versatile recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and Dijon mustard (if using). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken is golden brown with grill marks.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra tender.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Slice the grilled chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade.For bone-in chicken, you can use thighs or drumsticks, but increase the grilling time to ensure they cook through.If you prefer baking, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Storage: Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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