Craving delicious and healthy BBQ chicken? This Grilled Honey Lime BBQ Chicken recipe offers a fantastic blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for your next outdoor meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this tender, flavorful chicken.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use bone-in pieces, but cooking time will increase.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness. Maple syrup is a good alternative.
- Lime: Provides bright, zesty notes. Lemon juice can be substituted.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite healthy, low-sugar BBQ sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1/2 cup healthy BBQ sauce
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour to 4 hours 35 minutes (depending on marinating time)
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, whisk, grilling tongs, grill
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes even cooking. You want the chicken to be ready to soak up all those delicious flavors.
2. Whisk the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for a balanced flavor profile. This creates the vibrant base for your healthy BBQ chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade, or in a resealable bag. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, for the best flavor.
4. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
5. Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Baste with BBQ Sauce
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with your healthy BBQ sauce. Flip and baste again to coat both sides. This creates a sticky, caramelized glaze on your Grilled Honey Lime BBQ Chicken.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your healthy BBQ chicken moist and tender. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Citrus Herb: Include chopped fresh rosemary or thyme in the marinade.
- Skewer It: Cut chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers with bell peppers and onions before grilling.
- Oven Baked: Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Grilled Honey Lime BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the microwave, in a skillet on the stovetop, or in the oven until heated through. Enjoy your healthy BBQ chicken again!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but you must thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.
Q: How do you know when the chicken is done?
A: The best way is to use a meat thermometer; it should register 165°F in the thickest part.
Q: What can you serve with this chicken?
A: This healthy BBQ chicken pairs well with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, brown rice, or quinoa.
Q: Can you prepare the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can mix the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Cook a batch and portion it out for healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
