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Honey Soy Grilled Chicken Thighs

A mouthwatering close-up of succulent honey soy grilled chicken thighs, sizzling with a golden-brown crust and glistening with a sticky, caramelized glaze. The thighs are arranged artfully on a rustic wooden cutting board, their tender flesh contrasting with the charred, charcoal-kissed edges. Vibrant green scallions and toasted sesame seeds add pops of color and texture, while a drizzle of the savory, umami-rich sauce completes the dish. Warm, ambient lighting casts a cozy glow, highlighting the juicy, flavorful chicken against a minimalist, neutral background, creating an image that exudes the perfect balance of comfort and culinary excellence.
Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 400  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  10
Calories: 240 kcal
Best Season: Summer
Description

These Honey Soy Grilled Chicken Thighs are bursting with flavor from a delightful marinade, giving you tender, juicy chicken that’s a hit at any gathering or weeknight meal.

Ingredients
    Ingredients for Honey Soy Grilled Chicken Thighs
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (Bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor and juiciness.)
  • 0.25 cup honey (Use raw honey for a richer taste.)
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce (Low-sodium soy sauce works well to control saltiness.)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Adds a nice tang; you can substitute with apple cider vinegar.)
  • 2 cloves garlic (Minced; fresh garlic gives the best flavor.)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (Freshly grated ginger elevates the dish.)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (Toasted sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor.)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground for the best taste.)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions (Chopped; for garnish and a pop of color.)
Instructions
    Marinating the Chicken
  1. 1
    Prepare the MarinadeIn a large bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. This sweet and savory mixture is the key to juicy, flavorful thighs.
    Feel free to add a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor!
  2. 2
    Marinate the Chicken ThighsAdd 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
    The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavor will be, so don’t rush this step!
    3. Grilling the Chicken
  3. 3
    Preheat the GrillPreheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a perfectly cooked exterior.
    If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashy and glowing for the best heat.
  4. 4
    Grill the Chicken ThighsRemove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them on the grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
    Avoid flipping too often; let them develop that lovely char!
  5. 5
    Baste for Extra FlavorIf desired, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for an added layer of flavor. Just make sure to cook it long enough to eliminate any bacteria.
    This little step is magic—your guests will be begging for the recipe!
    6. Finishing Touches
  6. 6
    Rest the ChickenOnce cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
    Patience is a virtue here—don’t skip this step!
  7. 7
    Serve and EnjoyServe the grilled chicken thighs with your favorite sides—think steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Drizzle any leftover marinade (that has been cooked) over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
    Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a pop of color!
Note
  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness; they cook evenly and retain moisture better than boneless cuts.
  • Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  • For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting the garlic and ginger briefly before adding them to the marinade; this enhances their aromatic qualities.
  • If you want a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade.
  • Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat; you want a nice sear without burning the sugars in the marinade.
  • Keep a close eye on the chicken while grilling, as the sugars in the honey can caramelize quickly—turning to char if left unattended.
  • For even cooking, rotate the chicken thighs halfway through grilling.
  • Let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute for a moist bite.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs for brightness and added texture.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; it also tastes great in salads or wraps.
Keywords: grilled chicken, marinade, honey soy, summer recipes, easy dinner
Read it online: https://surefirerecipes.com/recipe/honey-soy-grilled-chicken-thighs/