If you’re looking for a delicious, flavorful, and simple grilled chicken recipe, this Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is a must-try. Combining the sweetness of brown sugar with a mild chili powder kick, this recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat without overpowering spiciness. Ideal for grilling season, this chicken is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a family dinner, picnic, or BBQ.
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Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
This Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is incredibly versatile and offers the perfect balance of flavors. The combination of brown sugar and chili powder provides a sweet yet slightly spicy taste, perfect for those who are not fond of overly spicy food. Plus, the marinade is so simple and easy to prepare—simply mix up a dry rub, marinate the chicken, and throw it on the grill! It’s a quick and delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a caramelized coating on the chicken.
• Chili Powder: Provides a mild kick of spice without being overpowering.
• Seasoned Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a savory note.
• Garlic Powder: A subtle flavor that complements the sweetness and spice of the rub.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The base of the recipe, tender and juicy when cooked properly.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to adjust the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some ideas:
• Honey or Maple Syrup: If you’re out of brown sugar, these sweeteners can provide a similar sweetness.
• Smoked Paprika: Instead of chili powder, you can use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor with less heat.
• Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier and more flavorful cut of meat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a ziplock bag. Gently pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, seasoned salt, and garlic powder.
- Add the brown sugar mixture to the ziplock bag with the chicken, seal the bag, and toss to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grilled Chicken
• Ensure your grill is preheated properly to avoid sticking or uneven cooking.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked through (165°F).
• Don’t skip the marinating step—it really enhances the flavor and helps the dry rub penetrate the meat.
• If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill for an added depth of taste.
• Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is perfect for pairing with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with:
• Roasted vegetables or green beans for a healthy, light side dish.
• A creamy potato casserole or rice pilaf for a comforting and hearty addition.
• A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the sweet and spicy flavors.
For a variation, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a spicy dipping sauce like Sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
Grilled Chicken for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, making a quick weeknight dinner, or prepping for a picnic, this Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is the perfect recipe to impress your guests or family. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to suit various tastes. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful chicken in wraps, salads, or on its own!
Conclusion: Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken – A Winner Every Time
In conclusion, this Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, well-balanced flavors. The combination of brown sugar and chili powder creates a delightful sweet and slightly spicy glaze that elevates the chicken to a new level of tastiness. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner, BBQ party, or just craving something quick yet flavorful, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner grillers but delicious enough to satisfy seasoned chefs. Try it out, and you’ll see why it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and can add even more flavor to the dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts, but make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is ideal. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors from the dry rub will penetrate the meat, resulting in a tastier dish.
Can I cook this Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Simply pan-sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side and then bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for around 10 minutes or until it reaches 165°F internally.
What sides pair well with Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken?
This Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or even a side of creamy coleslaw. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a cheesy casserole or rice pilaf.
More Relevant Recipes
- Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos
- Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that balances sweet and spicy flavors perfectly. The chicken is marinated in a simple dry rub, making it quick and easy to prepare, while the grilling process ensures a smoky, juicy result. Ideal for BBQs, family dinners, or a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Combine brown sugar, chili powder, seasoned salt, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Add the brown sugar mixture to the ziplock bag with the chicken and seal the bag. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for about 6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- You can use any cut of chicken – breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks.
- If cooking without a grill, pan-sear chicken and bake at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Grilled Chicken
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg