Grilled hot honey chicken with corn salad is the ultimate summer dish—sweet, spicy, smoky, and bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this recipe balances tender, juicy chicken with a vibrant, crunchy corn salad. The hot honey glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, while the fresh lime-kissed salad adds a refreshing contrast.
If you love grilled chicken recipes with a kick, this one’s for you. For the best results, use bone-in thighs for maximum juiciness, or swap in boneless breasts for a leaner option. Grilling the corn adds smoky depth, but boiling works too—check out how to grill corn perfectly for expert tips. The health benefits of honey in the glaze add natural sweetness with antioxidants, making this dish delicious and nutritious.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Grilled Hot Honey Chicken
Chicken Marinade
- 4 chicken thighs (or 2 large breasts)
- ¼ cup hot sauce (Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Hot Honey Glaze
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust for heat)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
How to Make Grilled Hot Honey Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix hot sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Prep the Grill
- Preheat to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken
- Place chicken on the grill, skin-side down first.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Avoid flare-ups by moving chicken if needed.
- Glaze & Finish
- In a small saucepan, melt butter with honey, chili flakes, and vinegar. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Brush the glaze onto the chicken in the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, broil for 1-2 minutes after glazing.
Ingredients for Corn Salad
- 3 cups grilled corn kernels (about 4 ears)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 avocado, cubed
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ cup feta or cotija cheese (optional)
How to Make Corn Salad
- Grill the Corn
- Husk the corn and grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Let cool, then slice off kernels.
- Mix the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
- Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and chili powder.
- Toss gently to coat.
- Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Sprinkle with cheese before serving.
Variation: Add black beans or quinoa for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with cilantro lime rice or grilled vegetables.
- Serve with icy margaritas or sparkling lemonade.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- For the Chicken:
- Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Try air frying (400°F for 15 mins).
- For the Salad:
- Swap feta for queso fresco.
- Add diced jalapeños for more heat.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Chicken: Keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Salad: Best eaten fresh (avocado browns quickly).
- Freezing: Chicken only (without glaze), up to 2 months.
Health Benefits & Nutrition Facts
- High-protein from chicken.
- Fiber-rich from corn and veggies.
- Antioxidants in honey and lime.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but they dry out faster—marinate longer and grill carefully.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: Adjust chili flakes and hot sauce to taste.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Marinate chicken overnight; assemble salad fresh.
Q: Best hot sauce for marinade?
A: Frank’s RedHot for tang, Sriracha for sweetness.
Conclusion
This grilled hot honey chicken with corn salad is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion. Customize the heat, sides, and toppings to make it your own—then dig in!
Want more grilling inspo? Try these next:
- Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Mango Avocado Salsa
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Did you make this recipe? Tag us and share your twist! 🍗🌽
For more creative ideas, check out this Super Summer Kale Salad Recipe.
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