Sticky Grilled Chicken

Indulging in the smoky aroma of chicken grilling over an open flame can make any gathering feel special. This Sticky Grilled Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a delightful marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. It takes just a few minutes to prep, but the flavor that develops during marinating is what truly makes this dish shine.

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or any time you crave something deliciously sticky and savory. You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and even freeze the chicken for later use.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade creates a delectable sticky glaze that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Chicken thighs remain juicy and tender throughout the grilling process.
• Perfect for grilling enthusiasts looking for a quick and tasty recipe.
• A minimal prep time of just 10 minutes makes it easy for anyone to tackle.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious meal:

For the Marinade

• 700g chicken thighs, skinless and boneless (Note 1)
• 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 garlic cloves, minced

Note: You can use chicken breast instead of thighs.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
• Fresh ginger can replace garlic for an aromatic twist.

How to Make It

Get ready to whip up a flavor-packed chicken dish.

1. Mix Marinade

Combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic in a large bowl until well mixed.

2. Reserve Glaze

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

3. Coat Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning them to fully coat each piece. Cover and marinate overnight in the refrigerator. (Minimum 3 hours, up to 48 hours, or freeze for later use.)

4. Grill Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and develop a beautiful glaze.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, freeze marinated chicken for future grilling.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours to absorb maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling to maintain its juiciness.
• Baste the chicken with the reserved glaze in the last few minutes of grilling for extra stickiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh summer salad for a light meal.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a complete barbecue feast.
• Enjoy with a side of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.