7 Sweet & Smoky BBQ Honey Chicken Recipes

Awaken your taste buds with these 7 sweet and smoky BBQ honey chicken recipes that will leave your guests craving more. What delicious surprises await?

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Have you ever wondered how the combination of honey and BBQ sauce can elevate your chicken dishes? With the right mix of sweet and smoky flavors, you can create mouthwatering meals that impress family and friends. From grilled thighs to sticky drumsticks, these recipes offer something for every palate. Let's explore these delicious options that promise to transform your next gathering into a flavorful feast.

Key Takeaways

  • Marinate chicken in a blend of honey, BBQ sauce, and spices for enhanced sweetness and smoky flavor before cooking.
  • Use grilling or baking methods to achieve juicy and flavorful chicken, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Incorporate additional ingredients like garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne for a more complex flavor profile in your recipes.
  • Consider making homemade BBQ sauce to customize the sweetness and smokiness of your honey BBQ chicken dishes.
  • Serve with complementary sides like grilled vegetables or coleslaw to create a well-rounded meal experience.

Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

grilled chicken with honey bbq

Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs are the perfect dish for any summer cookout or weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the juicy chicken thighs to new heights.

With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you'll find that this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also pleases your guests. Serve them alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This dish isn't just delicious; it's also versatile. You can marinate the chicken thighs ahead of time for deeper flavor, or simply brush on the honey BBQ sauce while grilling. Either way, the end result will be tender, flavorful chicken that everyone will love.

Make sure to keep an eye on the grilling process to achieve that perfect char without drying out the meat.

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

This honey BBQ mixture will serve as both a marinade and glaze for the chicken thighs. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour half of the honey BBQ sauce over them, ensuring they're well-coated.

Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.

Once marinated, remove the chicken thighs from the bag and let any excess marinade drip off. Place them skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes.

Flip the thighs and brush them with the remaining honey BBQ sauce. Continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an even more intense flavor, consider making your own BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.

Additionally, if you prefer a smokier flavor, you can add wood chips to your grill. Remember to baste the chicken with the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling to create a sticky glaze, but avoid doing it too early to prevent burning the sugars in the sauce.

Enjoy your Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs!

Smoky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

flavorful smoky honey wings

Smoky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are a mouthwatering treat that will elevate your next BBQ gathering. The combination of sweet honey, aromatic garlic, and a hint of smokiness creates a flavor profile that's irresistible. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or the main event, these wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a crispy exterior and tender meat, they're perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces or enjoying on their own.

Preparing these wings is simple, yet the results are impressive. Marinating the chicken in a delightful mixture of honey, garlic, and spices guarantees every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, the wings can be cooked on a grill or in the oven, making them versatile for any cooking setup. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress your guests with this delectable dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To prepare the smoky honey garlic chicken wings, start by combining honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.

Place the chicken wings in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over them, making certain they're evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the wings from the marinade and allow excess marinade to drip off. Grill the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're cooked through and have a nice char.

If using an oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake the wings on a lined baking sheet for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

For best results, make certain to marinate your chicken wings for as long as possible to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you prefer an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a few wood chips to your grill.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of sweetness and spice in the marinade to suit your taste. Enjoy your smoky honey garlic chicken wings with a side of fresh veggies or a tangy dipping sauce!

Sweet and Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers

honey bbq chicken skewers

Sweet and Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that perfectly combines the flavors of sweetness, heat, and smokiness. These skewers are ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

The marinade, which features honey, garlic, and a hint of cayenne pepper, infuses the chicken with rich flavors, while grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the taste. Paired with fresh vegetables on the skewers, this dish not only looks appealing but also provides a burst of flavors in every bite.

Preparing these skewers is easy and fun, making them a great option for cooks of all skill levels. The recipe allows for flexibility—feel free to swap out the vegetables or adjust the spiciness to suit your taste. Serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Cooking Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and add the chicken pieces, making sure they're fully coated in the marinade.

Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.

Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Ascertain the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an even more flavorful experience, consider adding other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to the skewers.

You can also experiment with different types of BBQ sauce for varying taste profiles. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.

Finally, serving these skewers with a side of extra honey BBQ sauce for dipping can elevate the dish, making it even more irresistible!

Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken Breasts

honey mustard glazed chicken

Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken Breasts is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or backyard barbecues. The combination of honey, mustard, and barbecue sauce creates a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken breasts that are sure to impress your guests.

Whether you're cooking on the grill or in the oven, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to achieving mouthwatering results. This dish isn't only quick to prepare but also offers flexibility regarding cooking methods. You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or let it sit overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

The honey mustard BBQ sauce can be adjusted to your taste – add more honey for added sweetness or more mustard for a tangier kick. No matter how you choose to prepare it, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and barbecue sauce until well combined. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the sauce for basting later.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is well coated and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 375°F (190°C). If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If using the oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  4. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them on the grill or in the oven. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and glaze.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, try to use chicken breasts that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill or using a smoked barbecue sauce.

Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will help retain its juices. Feel free to serve the chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Sticky Honey Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks

sweet and spicy chicken

Sticky Honey Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy that will have your taste buds dancing with every bite. Perfect for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners, these drumsticks are marinated in a rich blend of honey and chipotle sauce, delivering a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The balance of flavors guarantees that each piece isn't only tender but also infused with a smoky heat that keeps you reaching for more.

Preparing these drumsticks is a breeze, making them an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve them alongside coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal that captures the essence of a backyard BBQ.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

To start, combine the honey, chipotle sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

For extra crispiness, you can finish the drumsticks under a broiler for a couple of minutes after grilling. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Extra Tips: To guarantee even cooking, let the drumsticks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook more evenly.

Additionally, if you want to kick up the heat, consider adding more chipotle sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade. Always allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite. Enjoy your Sticky Honey Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks!

Honey Soy Glazed BBQ Chicken Legs

sweet and savory chicken

Honey Soy Glazed BBQ Chicken Legs are a delicious and easy dish to prepare for any occasion. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken legs when grilled or baked. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy succulent chicken that's packed with flavor and certain to please everyone at the table.

To make this recipe, you'll need chicken legs, which aren't only tender and juicy but also budget-friendly. The honey-soy glaze adds a delightful sweetness, balanced by the savory notes of soy sauce. Whether you're cooking on the grill or in the oven, these chicken legs will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy yet impressive dish that showcases the best of BBQ flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 8 chicken legs
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Place the chicken legs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure they're evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken legs for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're cooked through and have a nice char.

If baking, place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with reserved marinade halfway through cooking if desired. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken legs overnight. If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan for a few minutes until it thickens, then use it as a drizzle over the cooked chicken.

Always check that your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to confirm it's safe to eat. Enjoy your Honey Soy Glazed BBQ Chicken Legs with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Southern Style Honey BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

honey bbq chicken sandwiches

Southern Style Honey BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the flavors of sweet honey, smoky barbecue, and tender chicken. This dish is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, showcasing the essence of Southern comfort food. The combination of juicy chicken, rich barbecue sauce, and a soft bun creates an irresistible sandwich that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

To make these sandwiches even more delightful, consider adding your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños, for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; you can use grilled, baked, or slow-cooked chicken, depending on your preference. Whichever method you choose, the end result will be a mouthwatering sandwich that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup pickles (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

Start by preheating your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using a grill, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

If using the oven, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, season, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Once cooked, brush the chicken generously with honey BBQ sauce and let it rest for a few minutes.

To assemble the sandwiches, slice the grilled or baked chicken breasts and place them on the bottom half of each bun. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles if desired. Drizzle a little more honey BBQ sauce on top before placing the bun lid. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or potato chips.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in honey BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking. This will allow the chicken to absorb the sweet and smoky flavors, making each bite even more delicious.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of BBQ sauce or even make your own for a unique twist. Don't hesitate to customize your sandwich with other toppings like avocado or cheese to suit your taste!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Honey With Another Sweetener in These Recipes?

Sure, you can substitute honey with another sweetener! Isn't it funny how something so sweet can be swapped? Try maple syrup or agave nectar; they'll add a unique twist while still satisfying your cravings.

What Is the Best Type of Chicken to Use for BBQ Recipes?

For BBQ recipes, you'll want to use chicken thighs or drumsticks. They're juicy, flavorful, and hold up well on the grill. Breasts can work too, but watch for drying out during cooking. Enjoy your BBQ!

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in These Honey BBQ Dishes?

To adjust the spice level, you can add more chili powder for heat, sprinkle in cayenne for a kick, or mix in smoked paprika for depth. Balance the sweetness by tweaking the honey to suit your taste.

Are These Recipes Suitable for Grilling or Baking?

Yes, these recipes are suitable for both grilling and baking. You can choose your preferred method based on your equipment and desired flavor. Just adjust cooking times for each technique to guarantee perfect results.

How Can I Store Leftover Honey BBQ Chicken?

To store leftover honey BBQ chicken, let it cool, then place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat before serving!