This grilled chicken is packed with flavor, thanks to a sweet and spicy honey bacon glaze that really makes it shine. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner!
The glaze is the real star here—smoky bacon and a kick of spice make every bite exciting. I love serving it with some veggies for a colorful plate. Yum! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and evenly. If you’re looking for something different, try chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly!
Bacon: Bacon brings a smoky flavor to the glaze. If you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option, you can use turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for that umami punch.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. Just keep in mind that maple syrup has a different flavor profile, which can be a fun twist!
Hot Sauce: Sriracha works great for heat, but any hot sauce will do. For a milder flavor, you can use a sweet chili sauce or even leave out the hot sauce entirely.
How Do You Get That Perfect Glaze on Your Chicken?
The secret to the spicy honey bacon glaze is in combining the ingredients properly and timing it right when grilling! Follow these steps to achieve that delicious finish:
- Cook your bacon until crispy to release the fat, then keep that fat for the glaze. This adds a rich flavor!
- Mix the glaze ingredients in the reserved bacon fat. This will help infuse the flavors together well. Cook it gently to thicken, but don’t let it boil!
- When grilling, brush the glaze on during the last few minutes. This prevents burning and allows the flavors to meld without drying out.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This keeps it juicy and allows the glaze to set perfectly!
Grilled Chicken with Spicy Honey Bacon Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Glaze:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite), adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick yet flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready to cook the chicken perfectly. This is a key step for getting that nice grilled flavor!
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and help create a delicious crust when grilled.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are nice and crispy. Once crisp, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels to get rid of excess fat. Chop the bacon roughly and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
4. Make the Glaze:
In the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture together and cook it over low heat until it slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in the chopped bacon.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil and place them on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
6. Apply the Glaze:
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the spicy honey bacon glaze generously on both sides of the chicken. Turn carefully to avoid burning the glaze, allowing it to caramelize nicely onto the chicken.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, making the chicken juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley and serve it alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy every flavorful bite of your grilled chicken with that delightful spicy honey bacon glaze!
FAQ for Grilled Chicken with Spicy Honey Bacon Glaze
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for even cooking, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of hot sauce in the glaze. For a milder version, reduce the amount or use a sweeter chili sauce. For extra heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze!
Can I Prepare the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the glaze in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat it gently on the stove before brushing it onto the chicken.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Chicken?
This flavorful chicken pairs well with various sides! Consider serving it with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s also great in sandwiches or wraps for leftovers!
