Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken on a serving plate garnished with fresh herbs.

A Summer Memory: Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken and Backyard Laughter

There’s something magical about firing up the grill on a warm evening—the way the smoky aroma wafts through the air, the laughter drifting from the backyard, and family gathered around, plates in hand. Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken isn’t just a dinner at our house—it’s become a bit of a summer tradition. I remember the first time I tossed those perfectly marinated chicken breasts onto the grill; my kids peeked over the fence, noses twitching, waiting for that spicy-sweet aroma to call them in.

This recipe is my go-to when I want something that’s a little bit zesty, a little bit sweet, and so easy that even on a busy weeknight, we can still sit down together and dig in. If you’re craving a dish that hits every taste bud and brings your people together, this Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken will do the trick. (And trust me—it’s a total crowd-pleaser!)


Why You’ll Adore This Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Let me give you the real reasons I keep coming back to this grilled chicken:

  • Flavor Magic: The blend of honey and Sriracha is next-level. You get that gorgeous caramelization on the grill with just the right kick of heat.
  • So Simple: Just a few pantry staples—no fancy ingredients required. You’ll whip up the marinade in less than five minutes.
  • Weeknight Hero: It’s honestly perfect for busy evenings (minimal clean-up, max flavor!), but it’s impressive enough for weekend cookouts or casual gatherings.
  • Customization Wins: Spice lover? Go heavy on the Sriracha. Feeding littles? Dial it back and let the honey shine.

If you’re new to grilling (or to chicken marinades in general), this grilled chicken recipe will make you look like a pro—guaranteed.


Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible chicken recipe (with my little secrets for picking the best stuff):

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    Choose smaller, even-sized pieces for quicker, more even grilling.
  • 1/4 cup honey
    I love raw or local honey if you can swing it—such pure sweetness and adds gorgeous caramelized edges.
  • 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
    Classic spicy tang, but feel free to swap for your favorite Asian chili sauce if you like milder heat.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    Gives that salty, umami boost. I usually go for low-sodium for a more balanced marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    Keeps everything juicy and adds that healthy-fat bonus. Avocado oil works well, too.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Shortcut flavor. Fresh minced garlic is also delicious, just use two cloves.
  • Salt & pepper to taste
    I do a generous pinch of each for full flavor.
  • Lime wedges for serving
    Don’t skip these! That splash of acid brightens everything and pulls the grilled chicken flavors together.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Here’s how I make this spicy-sweet chicken almost every week in the summer. Don’t worry—if I can nail it with two hungry kids running circles around me, you can absolutely handle it, too.

  1. Mix the Marinade
    Whisk honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until totally smooth. (There’s something so satisfying about seeing that bright orange-red marinade come together.)
  2. Marinate the Chicken
    Grab a big zip-top bag, slide the chicken breasts in, and pour the marinade over the top. Seal it tight, squish everything around, and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. If you’ve got time, let it sit up to 8 hours—flavor overload!
  3. Preheat the Grill
    Before grilling, heat your grill to medium-high. (Pro tip: Brush those grates with a little oil so nothing sticks.)
  4. Grill to Juicy Perfection
    Remove chicken from the marinade (let the excess drip off, or you’ll get flare-ups). Grill each piece 6-8 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer hits 165°F (that’s the secret to juicy, not dry, grilled chicken).
  5. Let It Rest
    Take your chicken off the grill and let it rest a few minutes—pour yourself a drink, round up the family. Slicing too soon means you’ll lose all those savory juices!
  6. Serve It Up
    Lay out your grilled chicken, squeeze over fresh lime wedges, and watch everyone dig in.

My Secret Tips and Tricks for Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken Success

  • Marinade = Magic: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavors. Overnight is chef’s kiss, but an hour does wonders if you’re in a rush.
  • Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are extra thick, pound them out a bit for even cooking. (No more dry edges with raw middles!)
  • Grill Marks: For the prettiest grilled chicken, don’t move it around once you lay it down. Let those grill marks work their magic.
  • Baste for Flavor: Reserve a little bit of the marinade (before it touches the raw chicken!) and baste during the last 2 minutes on the grill for a serious flavor punch.
  • Garlic Freshness: Fresh garlic gives an even bolder kick—try it if you’re feeling adventurous.

When you learn your grill and get your seasoning right, beautiful honey grilled chicken is always just a few steps away.


Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps

I get it—sometimes you’re missing an ingredient, or you want to make things your own. Here’s how to mix up this spicy grilled chicken recipe:

  • Swap the Protein:
    Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results, or try shrimp for quick-cooking honey Sriracha grilled shrimp (just marinate for 30 mins!).
  • Honey Alternatives:
    Maple syrup or agave make awesome sweet swaps if you’re out of honey.
  • Make It Gluten-Free:
    Swap soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos—just as tasty.
  • Add Fresh Herbs:
    A handful of chopped cilantro goes beautifully sprinkled on top just before serving.
  • Turn Down the Heat:
    Sub half the Sriracha with ketchup or sweet chili sauce for kid-friendly honey grilled chicken.

It’s your kitchen, your rules—experiment a little! (The combo of sweet and spicy flavors always shines.)


How to Serve and Store Your Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Serving suggestions? This grilled chicken is so versatile!

  • With Sides:
    Slice over jasmine rice, tuck into tacos, or pair with a crisp, summery salad.
  • Meal Prep Pro:
    Chill leftovers in an airtight container up to 3-4 days (perfect for weekday lunch bowls or wraps).
  • Freeze for Later:
    Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months—honey Sriracha chicken reheats beautifully for last-minute dinners.

Don’t forget those lime wedges—they take every bite to the next level!


FAQs: Your Top Questions About Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken Answered

Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Lay marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. You’ll still get that spicy-sweet glaze.

How spicy is this grilled chicken recipe?
With 1/4 cup Sriracha, it’s about a medium heat—fiery but not overwhelming. Adjust up or down to match your spice tolerance.

Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs come out super juicy. Just up the grill time by a couple minutes per side.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?
Try teriyaki sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos for that salty punch. (It changes the flavor slightly, but you’ll still love it.)

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Overnight marinating makes for the most flavorful, juicy honey Sriracha grilled chicken. Just be sure to cover and refrigerate.


There you go, friend—everything you need to make your new favorite Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken. I hope this becomes a staple at your table, the way it’s become a staple at mine. Go fire up that grill… your backyard gathering just got a whole lot more delicious!

Print Pin

Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

A zesty and sweet grilled chicken recipe, perfect for summer evenings that brings family together around the grill.
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Grilled
Keyword Easy Dinner, Family Recipe, Grilled Chicken, Honey Sriracha Chicken, Summer Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Choose smaller, even-sized pieces for quicker, more even grilling.
  • 1/4 cup honey Raw or local honey adds gorgeous caramelized edges.
  • 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce Feel free to swap for your favorite Asian chili sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce Low-sodium soy sauce for a more balanced marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used as an alternative.
  • to taste pinch salt & pepper Generous pinches recommended for full flavor.
  • as needed lime wedges For serving, brightens the flavors.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Whisk the honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
  • Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour marinade over. Seal tightly, squish to combine, and marinate in the fridge for at least one hour or up to eight hours.
  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, and brush the grates with a bit of oil.

Cooking

  • Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then grill each piece for 6-8 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before slicing.
  • Serve with fresh lime wedges.

Notes

Marinate longer for deeper flavors. For best results, do not move chicken around on the grill for good grill marks. You can baste the chicken with reserved marinade during the last two minutes of cooking for added flavor.

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