Sticky Grilled Chicken

The tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken fills the air, creating an irresistible allure that’s hard to resist. This Sticky Grilled Chicken recipe promises juicy, tender Chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy glaze. With a prep time of just a few minutes and an overnight marination, it offers a dish full of flavor that will elevate any casual gathering or family dinner.

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor grilling or indoor cooking alike. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, it can be made ahead and stored for a quick meal later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade penetrates deeply, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Cooking the chicken creates a crispy, caramelized exterior that contrasts beautifully with tender meat.
• It can be marinated overnight, intensifying the flavor and making prep a breeze.
• This dish is versatile, complementing a variety of sides and salads.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for your sticky grilled chicken:

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce, all purpose or light (NOT dark)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Chicken

• 700g/1.4lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless

Note: Make sure to use light soy sauce for best results.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ketchup can be replaced with tomato sauce.
• Brown sugar can be swapped for honey.
• Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts.

How to Make It

Start by mixing the marinade for a flavorful base.

1. Mix Marinade
   In a large bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

2. Reserve Glaze
   Scoop out 1/2 cup of the marinade and set it aside for basting later.

3. Marinate Chicken
   Add the chicken thighs to the bowl of marinade. Turn the chicken to coat well in the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, ideally overnight, or up to 48 hours. Alternatively, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use.

4. Grill Chicken
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade in the bowl. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and nicely charred.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Always marinate the chicken overnight for the richest flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Baste with the reserved glaze during the last few minutes of grilling to enhance flavor.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling for optimal juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a delightful summer feast.
• Complement with fluffy rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner.