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Grilled BBQ Honey Lime Chicken - Sweet, Tangy, and Perfect for the Grill

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer)
  • BBQ sauce: 3/4 cup (use your favorite, smoky or sweet)
  • Honey: 3 tablespoons
  • Limes: 2 large (zest and juice)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tablespoon (adds depth)
  • Chili flakes or cayenne: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Fresh cilantro: Small handful, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges: For serving
  • Neutral oil: For greasing the grill grates

Method
 

  1. Prep the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, chili flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust with a pinch more salt or lime if needed.
  2. Trim the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. If using breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch) so they cook evenly.
  3. Marinate: Add chicken to a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in about two-thirds of the marinade. Reserve the remaining third for basting and finishing. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours in the fridge.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat to medium-high (about 400–425°F). Clean the grates and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the chicken: Shake off excess marinade and place chicken on the hot grates. Cook 5–7 minutes per side for thighs, 4–6 minutes per side for breasts, depending on thickness.
  6. Baste and caramelize: During the last 2–3 minutes, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken. Let it bubble and thicken, but watch closely so the sugars don’t burn.
  7. Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer. Target 165°F in the thickest part. Remove to a plate and rest 5 minutes.
  8. Finish and serve: Brush with a little more reserved sauce if you like. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.