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Flavorful Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken Thighs with Toasted Sesame Seeds

honey sriracha grilled chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe featuring a sticky, spicy honey sriracha glaze and crunchy toasted sesame seeds, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds / 1.4 kg)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (preferably raw wildflower honey)
  • 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to heat preference)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (black, white, or mixed)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste (kosher or sea salt)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth and glossy. (5 minutes)
  2. Marinate the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in the bowl or a zip-top bag and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge. (20 minutes to 2 hours)
  3. Toast the sesame seeds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. (5 minutes)
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan: Heat to medium-high (around 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking. (10 minutes)
  5. Grill the chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook 6-8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with leftover marinade, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Watch for flare-ups. (12-16 minutes)
  6. Rest and garnish: Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds before serving. (5 minutes)

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before marinating for crispiness. Toast sesame seeds just before use for best flavor. Watch for flare-ups due to honey glaze and move chicken to cooler grill areas if needed. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Can be cooked indoors using a stovetop grill pan or broiler.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey sriracha chicken, grilled chicken thighs, sesame seeds, quick dinner, spicy chicken, easy grilling recipe