BBQ-Spiced Chicken Thighs with Tangy Honey Glaze

For the BBQ Spice Rub:

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tangy Honey Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)

  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

For the Chicken Thighs:

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

For the BBQ Spice Rub:

1.     Mix the Spices:

    • In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

2.     Coat the Chicken:

    • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub the BBQ spice mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for longer for deeper flavor.

For the Tangy Honey Glaze:

  1. Whisk Together Ingredients:

    • In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, hot sauce, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Set aside.

For Grilling the Chicken:

1.     Preheat the Grill:

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2.     Brush with Olive Oil:

    • Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill.

3.     Grill the Chicken:

    • Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and nicely charred.

4.     Apply Glaze:

    • In the last few minutes of grilling, brush each side of the chicken thighs with the tangy honey glaze, allowing it to caramelize.

5.     Rest and Serve:

    • Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.

To Serve:

  • Place the BBQ-spiced chicken thighs on a serving platter.

  • Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top.

  • Garnish with fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.

Presentation Tips:

  • Arrange the BBQ-spiced chicken thighs on a platter with grilled lemon wedges for an attractive presentation.

  • Serve alongside a refreshing slaw or grilled vegetables.