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Savory Honey Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe with Easy Herb Marinade

honey butter grilled chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in fresh herbs and topped with a sweet and savory honey butter glaze, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Herb Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour marinade over. Massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours.
  3. Make the Honey Butter Glaze: Mix softened butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika in a small bowl until smooth. Keep at room temperature.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Light grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Clean and oil grates.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place thighs skin-side down on grill. Cook 6-7 minutes per side. Halfway through grilling second side, brush honey butter glaze generously on skin. Continue grilling until glaze caramelizes and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Serve: Transfer chicken to plate or foil-lined tray and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Marinate at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. Brush honey butter glaze in last 5 minutes of grilling to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. Control flare-ups with a spray bottle of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, honey butter glaze, herb marinade, chicken thighs, easy dinner, summer cookout, backyard grilling