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Flavorful Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe with Easy Chimichurri Sauce

honey garlic grilled chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy, sticky honey garlic grilled chicken thighs paired with a bright, herby chimichurri sauce create a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (skinless optional)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (regular for marinade, extra virgin for chimichurri)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup packed flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup packed cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (for chimichurri)
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for chimichurri)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for chimichurri)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for chimichurri)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together honey, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a medium bowl (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat dry the chicken thighs. Place them in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 2-3 hours (1-3 hours).
  3. Make the chimichurri sauce by combining chopped parsley, cilantro, 3 cloves minced garlic, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning or acidity with more vinegar or lemon juice. Let rest at room temperature (10 minutes).
  4. Preheat the grill to medium heat (375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking (10 minutes).
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and skin is crisp and caramelized (12-15 minutes).
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Serve chicken with generous spoonfuls of chimichurri sauce on top.

Notes

Use local honey for richer sweetness. Fresh herbs are key for vibrant chimichurri. Pat chicken dry before grilling to avoid flare-ups. Use medium heat to prevent honey from burning. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after grilling. Chimichurri can be made ahead and stored separately. For oven method, roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes then broil to crisp skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, grilled chicken thighs, chimichurri sauce, easy dinner, quick recipe, backyard grilling, summer recipe, juicy chicken