Grilled Hot Honey Chicken Corn

Nothing says summer quite like the juicy flavor of grilled hot honey chicken paired with a zingy lime corn salad. This recipe brings together sweet heat and fresh crunch for a meal that feels as bright as a sun-filled afternoon and is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers on the patio.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: juicy and forgiving choose organic or air-chilled if possible for best taste
• Olive oil: helps lock in moisture use a robust extra virgin for more flavor
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: brightens and tenderizes the chicken select lemons that feel heavy for their size
• Hot honey: brings sweet heat look for one with simple ingredients or make your own with honey and chili flakes
• Freshly grated lemon zest: layers even more citrusy flavor use a microplane and only zest the yellow part
• Minced garlic clove: adds savory depth always use fresh garlic for a cleaner taste
• Kosher salt and black pepper: seasons and enhances every bite stick to kosher for even seasoning
• Sweet corn kernels: juicy and sweet cut off the cob for optimal crunch and flavor
• Green onions: for fresh bite use both green and white parts for color and mild spice
• Fresh cilantro: brings herbal brightness only use leaves and tender stems for best texture
• Sour cream: adds tangy creaminess always check for freshness and avoid low or fat-free for full flavor
• Freshly squeezed lime juice and zest: infuses the salad with zippy lift choose unwaxed limes for better zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken thighs in a glass dish or resealable bag Whisk olive oil lemon juice hot honey lemon zest garlic and salt and pepper together Pour mixture over chicken so it is entirely coated Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor

Heat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to high Heat is key for fast caramelization and juicy meat Let it warm up until grates are very hot

Grill the Chicken:

Lay chicken on hot grill Let cook for about 5 minutes untouched It will naturally release from the grill when ready to flip Brush with extra marinade if desired Flip and grill another 5 to 6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F Let rest off the heat for 5 to 10 minutes for juiciest results Drizzle with more hot honey while warm

Prepare the Corn Salad:

Add corn kernels sliced green onions and cilantro to a large bowl Use freshly cut corn for max crunch and sweetness

Make Creamy Lime Dressing:

In a small bowl combine sour cream lime juice lime zest salt and pepper Whisk well Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking

Finish the Corn Salad:

Stir creamy dressing into corn mixture until everything is lightly coated Taste and adjust with extra lime or salt if needed

Serve:

Arrange grilled chicken alongside corn salad Spoon over any extra hot honey and enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor

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You Must Know

• Full of protein and fiber to keep you satisfied
• Naturally gluten free and adaptable for different diets
• Chicken can be marinated ahead to save time on busy nights

I always reach for really fresh summer corn at my farmers market It was the first veggie I learned to cut off the cob myself with my grandmother grinning beside me This salad has become our favorite summer side and always brings back sweet memories as soon as I taste that burst of lime and sweet corn

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Storage Tips

Leftover grilled chicken stays tender in the fridge up to three days Store corn salad separately to keep its crunch The salad tastes great on day two just stir before serving I sometimes even toss the cold corn salad with greens for an easy lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs but watch the grilling time as they cook faster Plain raw honey plus a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce can swap for hot honey Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier twist Swap cilantro for parsley if preferred

Serving Suggestions

Pair the chicken and salad together on a big platter Scatter extra sliced green onions or jalapenos if your crowd loves extra spice For a more filling meal add grilled tortillas and black beans I love serving this as a taco filling or topping the corn salad with crumbled queso fresco

Cultural Touch

Hot honey is a modern twist on traditional Southern spicy honey glazes and lime corn salad nods to classic Mexican street corn The combo brings a little sweet a little heat and a lot of freshness that works for family tables or fun backyard parties

Recipe Questions

→ How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy when grilling?

Marinate the chicken thighs thoroughly and let them rest after grilling. This helps retain moisture and flavor.

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be mindful to avoid overcooking, as breasts dry out faster. Adjust grill times accordingly.

→ Is it possible to prepare the corn salad ahead of time?

The salad can be assembled a few hours early. For the freshest flavor, mix in the dressing just before serving.

→ How spicy is the hot honey component?

The honey adds gentle heat that can be easily adjusted based on your brand or personal preference.

→ Can the corn be cooked instead of raw?

Absolutely! Lightly grill or steam the corn if desired for extra sweetness and a smoky touch.