Discover your new go-to recipe for the grill! This incredible Asian-inspired BBQ for Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken promises to be a family favorite, delivering complex flavors in a surprisingly simple dish. Prepare for rave reviews when you serve these succulent chicken legs alongside a fresh side of vegetables and fluffy rice. This recipe is designed to bring everyone running to the dinner table!
Mastering the Art of Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken
Few things compare to the irresistible aroma and taste of perfectly grilled chicken. It’s a culinary experience that excites the senses, and this recipe for Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken takes that experience to a whole new level. Forget bland or dry chicken; these tender drumsticks are bathed in a vibrant, Asian-inspired marinade that creates a beautiful, caramelized glaze on the grill. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that will make this dish an instant classic in your household.
Our mouth-watering recipe features tender chicken drumsticks, though you can easily adapt it for thighs, breasts, or wings. The magic lies in the luscious sweet and sticky sauce, which infuses the chicken with flavor during an overnight marinade. This unique blend marries the best qualities of classic barbecue sauce with the bright, complex profile of sweet and sour, thanks to key ingredients like rich brown sugar, tangy balsamic vinegar, golden honey, and savory soy sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exotic, making it perfect for any grilling occasion.
Looking for some delicious side dishes to complement this incredible recipe? Consider pairing it with a classic such as Meat Lovers Baked Beans for a hearty BBQ feel, or perhaps something with a zesty kick like Pickled Okra Relish. These sides offer a wonderful contrast to the chicken’s sweet and savory profile, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
What Makes This Sticky Grilled Chicken So Special?
This Asian-inspired BBQ chicken is the ideal choice when you want to elevate your usual cookout menu without added complexity. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any time you crave a taste of the grill. The secret to its undeniable appeal lies in the judicious combination of simple, readily available ingredients: the deep sweetness of brown sugar and honey, the umami richness of soy sauce, and the aromatic warmth of fresh ginger. Together, these components create a dish that boasts the succulent juiciness and vibrant flavors characteristic of authentic Asian cuisine.
You’ll be amazed by how effortless this sweet and sticky chicken recipe truly is. The preparation involves minimal effort: simply toss your chosen chicken pieces – whether drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings – in the homemade marinade. Let them sit overnight to fully absorb the incredible flavors, then grill the raw chicken for approximately thirty minutes. The long marination time is key to achieving that deep flavor penetration and incredibly tender texture.
Ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked is crucial for both taste and safety. To check for doneness, make a small cut into the thickest part of the meat; the juices should run clear, not red or pink. If you see any reddish hue, the chicken needs a few more minutes on the grill. For ultimate precision and peace of mind, an instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out of grilling, ensuring tender, juicy chicken every time.
The convenience of this recipe extends beyond its simple preparation. It’s also freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare a larger batch and store portions for later. Simply place the cooked chicken in an airtight container, label it clearly with the date, and freeze. When you’re ready for another delicious meal, thaw and reheat for a quick and flavorful dinner solution.
Never doubt if your chicken is perfectly cooked again. We highly recommend the Thermapen ONE instant-read thermometer for its speed and accuracy, making it an essential tool for any grilling enthusiast.
If you’re eager to explore more Asian-inspired flavors at home, consider trying my Sticky Asian Meatballs for a delightful appetizer or main course, or perhaps my refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad recipe for a lighter, yet equally flavorful option.
Essential Ingredients for Sweet and Sticky Chicken
This incredibly flavorful recipe relies on a collection of simple ingredients that you likely already have stocked in your pantry or refrigerator. For the precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.
- Chicken Legs: While drumsticks are fantastic for this recipe due to their juiciness and bone-in flavor, feel free to substitute or combine them with other chicken pieces such as succulent chicken thighs, lean chicken breasts, or flavorful wings. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different cuts.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient is a powerhouse, adding a crucial layer of sweetness and a rich, complex depth of flavor that balances the other components of the marinade.
- Honey: Beyond its natural sweetness, honey contributes to the signature sticky texture of the sauce and helps the chicken achieve a beautiful caramelization on the grill. It’s a wonderful natural alternative to processed sugars.
- Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar is essential for developing that desirable smoky-sweet flavor and creating the perfect glossy, sticky glaze.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: This provides the foundational umami and salty notes that are characteristic of classic Asian marinades. Using low sodium allows you to control the overall saltiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers a bold, aromatic pungency that is indispensable in this sauce, adding a savory kick.
- Ground Ginger: The unique peppery, slightly citrusy warmth of ginger elevates the flavor profile, contributing both savory and sweet undertones. For an even more intense flavor, fresh grated ginger can be used.
- Black Pepper: A simple yet effective ingredient that enhances the overall flavor of the dish and adds a subtle hint of heat.
- Green Onions & a Sprinkle of Sesame Seeds: These are perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh visual appeal and a delicate, nutty crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.
Pro Tip: Craving a bit more heat in your dish? Easily customize the marinade by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of chili paste, or a squeeze of Sriracha sauce to taste!
Effortless Steps to Crafting This BBQ Sticky Honey Chicken
My recipe for sweet & sticky grilled chicken drumsticks is designed for ease and convenience, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend cookout. Follow these simple steps to culinary success!
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well blended and the sugar has dissolved. This creates the flavorful foundation for your sticky chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken legs into a large, heavy-duty resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is adequately coated. Seal the bag securely, removing as much air as possible.
3. Distribute Flavor
Gently shake and massage the bag to ensure the marinade completely coats all surfaces of the chicken. This ensures maximum flavor penetration.
4. Chill and Infuse
Place the sealed bag in the refrigerator for a minimum of 8 hours, or ideally, overnight. This extended chilling time allows the chicken to fully absorb the rich flavors of the marinade. Remember to turn the bag several times during the marination period to redistribute the sauce and ensure even flavoring.
5. Prepare the Glaze
Before grilling, remove the chicken from the bag and set aside. Pour the remaining marinade from the bag into a small saucepan. Bring the marinade to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to a luscious, syrupy consistency. This cooked marinade will serve as your basting sauce and extra glaze.
6. Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on the hot grill. Cook for a total of about thirty minutes, turning every five minutes, until the skin is beautifully browned and adorned with enticing grill marks. Throughout the grilling process, baste the chicken frequently with the thickened marinade. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 170 degrees F (77 degrees C) in its thickest part to ensure it is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Loved This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away! If you’ve enjoyed these incredibly juicy and flavorful drumsticks, be sure to save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest. It’s the perfect way to keep this family-favorite handy for your next BBQ or weeknight dinner inspiration!
Delicious Accompaniments for This Juicy Chicken Recipe
This Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A simple serving of plain white rice, fragrant basmati rice, or wholesome brown rice provides an excellent canvas for the chicken’s rich flavors. Complement it with a side of fresh steamed vegetables, such as crisp green beans or broccoli, for a balanced meal. For those looking to elevate their rice game, consider these delightful rice recipes that perfectly complement the Asian-inspired profile:
- Cauliflower Rice: A lighter, low-carb alternative.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Adds a zesty, fresh dimension.
- Basil Garlic Fried Rice: Aromatic and satisfying.
- Coconut Rice: A touch of creamy sweetness to round out the meal.
- Rice Pilaf: Elegant and flavorful, with dried cranberries and almonds.
Explore More Grilling Recipes to Savor
The grill offers endless possibilities for delicious meals. If you’ve enjoyed this sweet and sticky chicken, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic grilling recipes, perfect for any outdoor cooking adventure:
- Sweet & Spicy Bacon Wrapped Chicken (pictured above): A delightful combination of savory bacon and tender chicken with a kick.
- Smoked Turkey Recipe: Perfect for holidays or a special weekend meal.
- Glazed Smoked Ham: A classic dish with a smoky, sweet finish.
- Juicy Lucy Burger: A cheese-stuffed burger that’s a Minneapolis original.
- Grilled Polish Sausage & Sauerkraut: A robust and satisfying meal.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: Elevate any grilled dish with a signature sauce.
- Grilled Bratwurst & Kraut Meatball Kabobs: A fun and flavorful take on classic ingredients.
- Instant Pot Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with a unique twist.
- Red, White & Bleu Burger: A gourmet burger with bold flavors.
You can truly never have too many amazing chicken recipes, and this easy grilled chicken creation is undoubtedly a keeper for your culinary repertoire. Now, let’s get to the full recipe details!
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Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken
This fabulous Asian-inspired BBQ recipe for Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken will soon be your new warm weather favorite!
5 mins
30 mins
8 hrs
8 hrs 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Sweet & Sticky Grilled Chicken
Calories: 592 kcal
Print Recipe
Equipment
- Thermapen Mk4 Instant-read Thermometer
Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs (about 1 ½ lbs – Feel free to use whatever parts of the chicken your family enjoys)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and pepper for the marinade.
- Pour the marinade into a large zipper bag along with the chicken legs.
- Seal and shake to coat.
- Place the bag in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight, turning several times.
- Remove Chicken from bag.
- Pour the remaining marinade from the zipper bag into a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the marinade to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a low simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally until the sauce has thickened; about 15 minutes.
- Grill the chicken drumsticks at about 350 degrees F (175 C). Cook for about thirty minutes total, five minutes per side, until the skin is browned with grill marks. Basting every now and then with the marinade. Internal temperature should reach 170 degrees F (77 C).
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 592 kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 66g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 341mg | Sodium: 439mg | Sugar: 21g
This recipe was originally posted on July 25, 2014. It has been updated to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and re-shared on July 6, 2022.