This recipe delivers juicy, tender honey grilled chicken with perfectly crispy skin – a flavour explosion that's sure to become a family favourite. Forget dry, bland chicken breasts; this method guarantees succulent meat infused with the irresistible sweetness of honey, balanced by savory herbs and a hint of spice. Imagine the golden-brown sheen, the mouthwatering aroma, and the satisfying crunch with every bite. This isn't your average grilled chicken; it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the marinade that unlocks the chicken's full potential to mastering the grilling technique for that coveted crispy skin. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your guests with a dish that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create some unforgettable honey grilled chicken together.
Tools Needed
- Oven
- Air Fryer
- Fork
- Plastic Wrap
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.2kg - 1.5kg
- Honey: 60g
- Soy Sauce: 10ml
- Dark Soy Sauce: 10ml
- Oyster Sauce: 40g
- Shallots: 5-6
- Garlic: 7-8 cloves
- Seasoning Powder: 10g
- Salt: 2-3g
- Cooking Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Chicken
- Wash the chicken thoroughly and use a fork to poke holes in thicker parts like the breast to help it absorb the marinade.
- Mince the shallots and garlic finely.
- In a bowl, combine the minced shallots and garlic, oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, half the honey (30g), seasoning powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Marinate the chicken with the mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated inside and out. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 2. Initial Oven Baking
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) with fan.
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes (or 30 minutes for a fattier chicken).
Step 3. Honey Basting and Crisp Finish
- Remove the chicken, brush with the remaining honey (30g) and some of the marinade. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, increasing the temperature by 10°C each time. Repeat 3-4 times.
Step 4. Air Fryer Alternative
- If using an air fryer, follow the same baking and basting steps, cooking in 10-15 minute intervals.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- For a more flavorful chicken, use a mix of honey types like longan, coffee, or silver flower honey.
- If you don't have shallots and garlic, you can substitute with onion.
- Do not marinate with fish sauce, as it will dry out the chicken.
- If the chicken is very fatty, bake it for a longer time to let the fat drain away for firmer meat.
- Make extra sauce to dip the chicken by sautéing shallots and garlic, then adding water, remaining honey, satay sauce, oyster sauce, seasoning powder, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How can I ensure my chicken skin gets crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before marinating and grilling. High heat and a little oil on the skin help achieve that crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the grill.
2. What can I substitute for honey if I'm out?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes, but the flavor profile will differ slightly. Adjust the amount to your taste.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. You can also grill ahead and reheat gently.
This honey grilled chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors with satisfyingly crispy skin. From weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!