BBQ-Spiced Chicken Thighs with Tangy Honey Glaze

 

Here’s a flavor-packed, weeknight-friendly recipe that brings sweet heat and tang in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1½ tbsp olive oil
• 1¼ tsp salt
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2½ lbs), trimmed of fat
• 5 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (divided)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the oven – Set rack to the top position and preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty foil for easy cleanup.
2. Make the spice rub – In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, and cayenne.
3. Season the chicken – Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Broil – Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Mix the glaze – In a small bowl, combine honey with 2 tbsp of the cider vinegar.
6. Glaze & caramelize – Brush half the glaze over the chicken, broil 1–2 minutes, flip, brush with remaining glaze, and broil until nicely caramelized.
7. Finish – Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp vinegar and spoon over any pan juices before serving.

 

Serving tip: These pair beautifully with corn on the cob, cornbread, or a fresh corn salad for a summer-style plate any time of year.