Name: Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 6 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced; 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced; 1 tablespoon dried cilantro; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the sweet and spicy flavors of honey and jalapeño. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be marinated ahead of time. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. The unique blend of ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish can be marinated in advance, allowing you to save time on busy days.
Flavor Packed: The combination of honey and jalapeño creates a mouthwatering balance of sweetness and heat.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Grilling Greatness: Cooking on the grill adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
Family-Friendly: The mild spice level makes it suitable for both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Large zip-top plastic bag or baking dish
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides an authentic smoky flavor while ensuring even cooking.
Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix the marinade for an even coat on the chicken.
Large zip-top plastic bag: Ideal for marinating; it allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors without mess.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 6 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
– 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced
– 1 tablespoon dried cilantro
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces

How to Make Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the following ingredients:
1. 1/4 cup honey
2. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4. 6 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
5. 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced
6. 1 tablespoon dried cilantro
7. 2 teaspoons kosher salt
8. 1 teaspoon black pepper

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade into a large zip-top plastic bag or baking dish:
1. Add the 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces.
2. Toss to coat thoroughly.
3. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight, turning the chicken occasionally.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill to medium:
1. Oil the grate to prevent sticking.
2. Place chicken on grill; close the lid.
3. Turn chicken pieces occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 30 minutes.

Now you have a delicious Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken ready to serve! Enjoy it hot off the grill with your favorite sides for a perfect meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement the dish perfectly.

Fresh Salad

A vibrant, mixed greens salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the spicy chicken.

Rice or Quinoa

Fluffy rice or nutty quinoa serves as a great base to soak up the flavors of the honey jalapeño marinade.

Grilled Vegetables

Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful and healthy side that pairs well with the grilled chicken.

Warm Tortillas

Serve warm tortillas on the side for a fun way to enjoy the chicken; they can be used to make delicious wraps or tacos.

Avocado Salsa

A refreshing avocado salsa made with diced avocado, lime juice, and cilantro complements the spice of the chicken beautifully.

Creamy Coleslaw

A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the heat from the jalapeños in the chicken recipe.

How to Perfect Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavors and makes it more tender.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to a medium temperature for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Baste While Cooking: Brush extra marinade on the chicken while grilling for added flavor and moisture.
Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain its juices before slicing.
Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your spice preference; add more for extra heat!

Best Side Dishes for Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Choosing the right side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments for your Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken.

Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements spicy flavors well; grill it alongside the chicken for added smokiness.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro adds zesty freshness to balance the heat.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad combines black beans with corn, tomatoes, and onions for protein and flavor.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet grilled pineapple adds a tropical touch that contrasts nicely with spicy chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with grilled meats.
Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip can help tone down spiciness while adding creaminess to your plate.
Chips and Guacamole: This classic pairing offers crunch and creaminess, making it an excellent appetizer before dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken is simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when preparing your Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe.

Not marinating long enough: Skipping the marination step or not letting the chicken soak long enough can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but overnight is best.
Using too much heat on the grill: High heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat for even cooking and great flavor.
Skipping the oiling of the grill: Failing to oil the grill grate can lead to sticking. Always oil your grill before placing the chicken on it.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
Not checking doneness: Relying solely on cooking time may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe will last up to 3–4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Freeze cooked chicken in airtight freezer bags or containers.
It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe special?

This recipe combines sweet honey with spicy jalapeños, creating a unique flavor profile that is both delicious and exciting.

Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces; however, using bone-in skin-on will enhance flavor and juiciness.

How spicy is this Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you include. For milder flavors, use fewer jalapeños or remove seeds before mincing.

Can I bake instead of grilling?

Absolutely! You can bake this chicken in an oven at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes or until fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that pleases everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with different spices or herbs based on your preferences!