Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with marinades for chicken. After several trials, I perfected a balance of sweet and savory that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken thighs. Sharing this dish with family during gatherings has made it a beloved staple. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell has mastered the art of creating comforting and delicious dinner recipes. His passion for cooking brings a unique twist to traditional American dishes, making them accessible for home cooks. Chef Mitchell believes that good food is the heart of family gatherings.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs served on a plate

Why This Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simple yet effective marinade that makes the chicken thighs incredibly tender and flavorful. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and spices creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Plus, the use of chicken thighs ensures a juicy result every time.

Grilling gives the chicken a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze. The marinade infuses the meat with flavor, while the grilling process creates a beautiful charred exterior, adding depth to each bite. This recipe showcases how easy it is to achieve great flavor with minimal effort.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly. Additionally, always preheat your grill to ensure a good sear and to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Simply cook them when you're ready, and they will still be delicious. You can also grill and store them in the fridge for a day before reheating.

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will provide a similar umami flavor profile that complements the chicken well.

The best way to ensure your chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken thighs. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with a side of coleslaw or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Properly stored in an airtight container, these chicken thighs can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and grill it right before serving. This way, you save time on busy days while still enjoying a fresh and delicious meal.

The best way to reheat the chicken thighs is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps maintain their juiciness. Alternatively, you can use a microwave but be careful not to dry them out.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may have been cooked for too long or at too high a temperature.

Solution: To avoid dryness, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken skin may not have rendered properly.

Solution: Make sure to grill the chicken skin-side down first and cook it on high heat for the initial few minutes to create a crispy exterior.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken can become tough and dry when overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may still be pink in the center.

Recovery: If the center is undercooked, return the chicken to the grill and cook until the temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken may have been exposed to too high heat for too long.

Prevention: Lower the grill temperature slightly and keep an eye on the chicken to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, serve with a side of unsalted rice or bread to absorb some saltiness.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, consider marinating it longer or adding more spice to the glaze.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs

The key ingredients in this recipe include chicken thighs, which are known for their juicy texture and rich flavor. A flavorful marinade made from soy sauce, honey, and garlic adds depth to the dish. Fresh herbs like cilantro provide a finishing touch that enhances the overall taste.

Quality matters when it comes to ingredients. Using fresh chicken and high-quality soy sauce will elevate the dish. Opt for organic honey and fresh garlic for the best flavor. The freshness of the ingredients will reflect in the final dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest results. They retain moisture better during cooking compared to boneless cuts.
  • Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you are watching your salt intake. This allows you to control the overall sodium level in the dish without sacrificing flavor.
  • Honey: Opt for raw or organic honey for a more complex flavor profile. It adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the savory elements of the dish.
Cooking process for Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Preheating the grill is essential to achieve that perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Pay attention to the grilling time and temperature to get the best results. The key is to allow the chicken to rest after grilling, which helps retain its juices. With these steps, you'll achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs

The most important technique for this recipe is proper marination. It not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the chicken. Ensure the chicken marinates long enough for the flavors to penetrate deeply. This is what makes these chicken thighs so flavorful and succulent.

Grilled Glazed Chicken Thighs

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium for less salt
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
    Adds tanginess
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    For fragrance
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
    Fresh or ground

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For cooking
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    Adds flavor
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    For heat
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
    For garnish
  • Fresh cilantro
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

  2. Marinate Chicken

    Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

  3. Preheat Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C).

  4. Remove Chicken from Marinade

    Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.

  5. Season Chicken

    Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.

  6. Grill Chicken

    Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  7. Glaze Chicken

    During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with additional glaze if desired.

  8. Serve

    Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them for future use.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled thighs are perfect served with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Pairing them with a cold beverage makes for a refreshing meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different marinades by adding your favorite herbs or spices. For a citrus twist, add orange juice to the glaze or try using different types of vinegar for varied flavor profiles.