“`html
If you are craving a meal that bursts with vibrant flavors, a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, and a refreshing twist of citrus, then this Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Tender chicken grilled to juicy perfection is generously coated with sticky, fiery hot honey, creating a mouthwatering crust that is simply irresistible. Paired with a zesty lime corn salad bursting with fresh tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, this dish brings together bright colors and textures that make every bite exciting and satisfying. Whether for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe is straightforward yet essential, contributing uniquely to the layers of flavor and texture. From smoky paprika seasoning the chicken to the juicy burst of fresh corn in the salad, every component is here to please your palate and add beautiful color to your plate.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose your favorite cut for juicy, tender grilled chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the chicken brown beautifully and keeps it moist while grilling.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smokey depth that amplifies the grilled flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a subtle yet savory lift to the chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough bite to balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade): The star ingredient that delivers a perfect harmony of heat and sweetness.
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or frozen and thawed): The salad’s sweet and crunchy base, bringing summer vibes to your plate.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of tang to brighten the salad.
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced): Adds a sharpness that cuts through the sweetness and richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings herbal freshness and color harmony.
- Juice of 1 lime: The zesty kiss that ties all the salad flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps marry the salad ingredients with a luscious, silky finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning for a perfectly balanced salad.
How to Make Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
Step 1: Marinate and Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning base packs a flavorful punch that infuses the chicken with smokiness and savory notes. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor, though you can grill right away if short on time.
Step 2: Preheat and Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so the chicken gets a beautiful sear. Grill the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, ensuring it cooks through while developing a nice char. The grilled marks add an authentic smoky aroma that complements the hot honey glaze.
Step 3: Glaze with Hot Honey
During the last 1 to 2 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with your hot honey. As it caramelizes over the high heat, it forms a luscious sticky crust bursting with spicy sweetness. This is the magic moment when your chicken transforms into a showstopper.
Step 4: Prepare the Lime Corn Salad
While your chicken rests for 5 minutes to lock in juices, whisk together corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This salad is lively and refreshing, with the lime juice adding a bright tang that complements the spicy chicken.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the rested chicken into tender pieces and arrange it over a bed of the lime corn salad. For an extra punch, drizzle more hot honey on top and garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This plating presentation makes every bite an exciting combination of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro sprigs add a pop of green and herbal brightness, while an extra lime wedge invites your guests to brighten their plates even more. A light drizzle of additional hot honey over the chicken creates a stunning glossy finish that is as appetizing as it looks.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or a hearty quinoa pilaf for a well-rounded meal. For a creamier contrast, sliced avocado or a dollop of cooling Greek yogurt provides balance to the heat-packed chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish on a large wooden board for a casual gathering or arrange the chicken and salad on colorful plates to make the vibrant ingredients pop. You can also stuff the salad and chicken into warm tortillas for a delightful twist on tacos, perfect for lively dinners with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grilled chicken and salad in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days, while the salad tastes freshest within the same time window to retain its crispness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the grilled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. The lime corn salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to its fresh vegetables and lime juice.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to keep it moist and prevent drying. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the caramelized honey glaze texture. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully because they stay juicy and tender on the grill, absorbing the hot honey glaze beautifully.
How spicy is the hot honey glaze?
The level of heat can vary depending on the hot honey you choose or make. If you prefer mild spice, start with fewer chili flakes or hot sauce when preparing homemade hot honey and adjust to taste.
Can I make the lime corn salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen up the flavors.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes?
Marinating 30 minutes helps deeper flavor infusion but it is not mandatory. The chicken will still be delicious with the simple seasoning applied just before grilling.
What can I substitute for fresh corn if it’s not in season?
Frozen corn kernels are a great alternative—just thaw them before assembling the salad. Grilled or fresh corn work best for optimal sweetness and texture.
Final Thoughts
Bringing together the perfect harmony of spicy, sweet, smoky, and tangy, this Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe is a surefire way to brighten your dinner rotation. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. I hope you give this fantastic dish a try and enjoy every flavorful, colorful bite as much as I do!
“`
Print
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time if desired)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts or thighs brushed with spicy hot honey, served alongside a fresh and zesty lime corn salad. Perfect for summer dinners, this gluten-free main course combines smoky, sweet, and tangy elements to create a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
For the Lime Corn Salad
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or frozen and thawed)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld (this step is optional but recommended for extra flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
- Glaze with Hot Honey: In the last 1–2 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with hot honey. Allow it to caramelize slightly on the grill to create a delicious sticky coating.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.
- Prepare the Lime Corn Salad: While the chicken rests, combine corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and place it over the lime corn salad. Drizzle extra hot honey on top if desired and garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Notes
- To make your own hot honey, gently warm 1/4 cup honey with 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes until combined.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or avocado for a more filling meal.
