Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

This Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe is perfect for those who crave a blend of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual dinners to summer barbecues. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful taste that will impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and jalapeños creates a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Flexible Cooking Method: Whether you grill or bake, this recipe adapts well to your cooking preference.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at gatherings, this dish caters to both spicy food lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziptop plastic bag or large baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal high heat needed for achieving that perfect char on the chicken.
• Ziptop plastic bag or large baking dish: Allows for easy marinating and ensures the chicken is thoroughly coated with the flavorful marinade.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in adding ingredients, which is crucial for balancing flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This delicious chicken recipe is easy to prep a day ahead and can be cooked in about 30 minutes. See notes for how to bake this chicken in the oven.

For the Marinade

• 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

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced jalapeño, grated garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade into a large ziptop plastic bag or large baking dish. Add the bone-in chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Seal or cover it tightly and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight. Remember to turn the chicken occasionally for even flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium. Make sure to oil the grate lightly before placing any chicken on it.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Close the lid and turn occasionally until golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 30 minutes.

Enjoy this tasty Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken is a delightful experience that brings together the sweet and spicy flavors of the marinade. Pairing this dish with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal and impress your guests.

For a Casual Dinner

• Serve with Rice: A bed of fluffy rice complements the chicken perfectly and absorbs the delicious juices.
• Tortillas: Offer warm tortillas for guests to make their own spicy chicken wraps.

With Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the heat from jalapeños with its cool crunch.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the grilled chicken’s spicy flavor.

For a Festive Touch

• Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies make for an attractive presentation while adding depth to your plate.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the meal’s sweetness, making it a great side choice.

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: Letting the chicken marinate overnight intensifies the flavors for a more robust taste.
• Use Bone-in Chicken: Bone-in pieces stay juicier during grilling, providing a tender bite.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is properly heated to create a nice sear on your chicken, locking in moisture.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps redistribute juices, resulting in moist meat.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

Pairing sides with Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that work well with this recipe.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes with garlic flavor provide comfort and richness alongside spicy chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables offers a nutritious balance to the meal.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans complement the honey glaze beautifully.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can be filled with rice and spices for added texture and flavor.
5. Grilled Corn Salad: Adding grilled corn to a fresh salad creates an explosion of flavors and textures that pairs wonderfully.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness while contrasting nicely with jalapeños’ heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Bold phrase: Not marinating long enough – Marinating your chicken for at least 20 minutes is essential for flavor. Ideally, let it sit overnight for the best results.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring temperature control – Cooking on a grill that’s too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Always preheat your grill to medium heat.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the oiling of the grill – Failing to oil the grill grates can result in sticking chicken. Use a paper towel dipped in oil and apply it to the grates before grilling.
• Bold phrase: Using bone-less chicken – This recipe works best with bone-in chicken pieces as they retain moisture and flavor during cooking. Avoid using boneless cuts for this recipe.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the chicken – Monitor your chicken closely; overcooking can lead to dry meat. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly grilled chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold phrase: Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Bold phrase: Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken?

Serving this dish with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad complements its flavors beautifully and makes it a complete meal.

Can I bake Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes! You can bake it at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

How spicy is this Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use and their freshness. Adjust according to your taste by adding fewer jalapeños if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different spices or herbs to suit your taste, such as lime juice or cumin for an additional twist on flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. You can easily customize it with different spices or marinades based on your preferences. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken Recipe

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Honey Jalapeño Grilled Chicken, a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy notes. This recipe is not just quick to prepare, needing only 15 minutes of active time, but it also adapts seamlessly to various cooking methods, be it grilling or baking. The marinade combines honey with fresh jalapeños and aromatic garlic, infusing the chicken with a burst of flavor that will leave your family and guests craving more. Ideal for casual dinners or festive gatherings, this dish caters to diverse palates and pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Enjoy juicy, tender chicken packed with vibrant flavors in no time.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, jalapeños, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 20 minutes (up to overnight) in a ziptop bag or baking dish.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill marinated chicken for about 30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 285
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 120mg