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Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy 5-Step Flavorful Herb Butter

honey garlic grilled chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken thigh recipe featuring a sweet honey garlic glaze and a rich herb butter finish, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds / 1.4 kg)
  • 1/4 cup honey (85 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (57 g)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Herb Butter (10 minutes): In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, finely chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the herbs are evenly distributed. Set aside in the fridge to firm up slightly while you prep the chicken.
  2. Marinate the Chicken (10 minutes active, 20 minutes resting): In a large bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Preheat the Grill (5 minutes): Get your grill hot, aiming for medium-high heat (about 400°F / 204°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered in white ash.
  4. Grill the Chicken (15-20 minutes): Place the thighs skin-side down first. Grill for about 7-9 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the leftover honey garlic marinade. Check for a golden caramelization and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Move chicken away from flare-ups as needed.
  5. Finish with Herb Butter (2 minutes): Once off the grill, dollop the herb butter generously over each thigh. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep juices locked in.

Notes

Use Kerrygold butter for richer herb butter flavor. Local raw honey adds best depth and floral notes. If fresh herbs are unavailable, use one-third the amount of dried herbs. Pat chicken dry before marinating for better caramelization. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest chicken 5 minutes after grilling for juiciness. Baste during the last half of grilling to prevent burning sugars. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby for flare-ups.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, grilled chicken thighs, herb butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, summer grilling