Craving a meal that’s bold, flavorful, and easy to make?
These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs check all the boxes.
The combination of smoky, charred chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and sweet honey creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
Chicken thighs are ideal for grilling because they stay tender and juicy, absorbing the rich flavors of the marinade.
The honey adds a natural caramelization, while the buffalo sauce provides a tangy heat that pairs beautifully with the smokiness from the grill.
Let’s get started with this simple and delicious recipe that will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
- Perfect balance of sweet and spicy – The honey softens the heat from the buffalo sauce.
- Juicy and flavorful – Chicken thighs stay moist and tender on the grill.
- Versatile – Works great for meal prep, summer barbecues, or a family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Step 2 – Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3 – Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For extra caramelization, baste the chicken with more buffalo sauce in the last few minutes of grilling.
Step 4 – Toss in Honey Buffalo Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, melt the butter and mix it with additional buffalo sauce and honey. Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce for a rich, flavorful coating.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Marinate longer for better flavor – Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for a few hours or overnight enhances the taste.
- Use a meat thermometer – Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
- Prevent flare-ups – If grilling over direct heat, watch for flare-ups from dripping marinade. Move the chicken to indirect heat if needed.
- Baste for extra flavor – Brush the chicken with additional sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a deeper glaze.
What to Serve with Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs
These grilled chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a smoky sweetness that complements the spicy chicken.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes – A hearty and satisfying side.
- Creamy Coleslaw – Balances the heat with a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Butter Rice – A simple, flavorful base to soak up the sauce.
- Cucumber Salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
- Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
More Delicious Grilled Chicken Recipes
If you love these honey buffalo chicken thighs, here are a few more grilled chicken recipes to try:
- Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs – Zesty, garlicky, and full of flavor.
- Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken – A spicier twist with a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy BBQ Grilled Drumsticks – Smoky and packed with bold barbecue flavor.
- Garlic Butter Grilled Chicken Breasts – A simple yet incredibly tasty option.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to dry out faster. To keep them juicy, marinate them longer and monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before grilling. You can also grill the chicken and store leftovers for up to 4 days.
Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs (Sweet, Spicy & Smoky)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs bone-in or boneless
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Step 2 – Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3 – Grill the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For extra caramelization, baste the chicken with more buffalo sauce in the last few minutes of grilling.
Step 4 – Toss in Honey Buffalo Sauce
- While the chicken is grilling, melt the butter and mix it with additional buffalo sauce and honey. Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce for a rich, flavorful coating.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.