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Honey BBQ Chicken

Tender boneless chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp oil or butter for sautéing garlic
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp black pepper fresh, coarsely ground
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar loosely packed
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed (about 1/2 lemon)
  • 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil or other neutral oil, for coating chicken
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  • In a small saucepan, heat 1 tsp oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it just begins to brown, about 30–60 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  • Add ketchup, honey, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, 1/2 tbsp black pepper, dark brown sugar, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes until hot and slightly thickened. Keep warm until ready to use.
  • Meanwhile, pat the chicken thighs dry, coat them with the avocado oil, and season evenly with salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the hot surface and sear until golden brown on the first side, then flip and brown the other side.
  • When chicken reaches about 155°F internal temperature, brush a generous layer of the honey BBQ sauce onto the top, flip to caramelize, brush the other side, and repeat as needed until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Remove the chicken when fully cooked and let rest briefly. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

Equipment

  • Small Saucepan
  • Grill or Grill Pan
  • Tongs
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Mixing Spoon

Notes

  • For stovetop searing, use a heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  • To bake, roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes and brush sauce at the start so it caramelizes.
  • For air fryer, preheat to 380°F and cook 12 minutes, flip, then 6 more minutes; toss in sauce when done.