Grilled Chicken Thighs – Sweet and Savory Sticky Marinade

There’s something undeniably comforting about grilled chicken. It’s simple, timeless, and endlessly versatile. But when you introduce a rich, tangy, and sweet marinade—like the one in this recipe—you’re taking it to a whole new level. These Sweet and Savory Grilled Chicken Thighs have everything you want in a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering centerpiece: bold flavor, juicy tenderness, and that irresistible sticky glaze that makes you want to lick your fingers clean.

This Grilled chicken thighs recipe brings together a handful of pantry staples—soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger—and transforms them into a marinade that’s deeply flavorful with just the right balance of salty, sweet, and umami. The chicken thighs soak up all that goodness, and once they hit the grill, something magical happens. The sugars in the marinade caramelize, the soy sauce deepens the savory notes, and the garlic and ginger create a warm, aromatic layer that smells just as incredible as it tastes.

I first made this dish on a whim during a backyard barbecue with my family. We had some chicken thighs in the fridge and not a whole lot of time to come up with something fancy. I grabbed a few ingredients, whisked up a marinade, and let the chicken soak while we fired up the grill. The result? Pure magic. Every bite was juicy, rich with flavor, and perfectly charred on the edges. My family devoured it within minutes, and since then, it’s been our go-to dish whenever we want something easy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing.

One of the best things about this recipe is how little effort it requires. You mix the marinade, let the chicken rest in it, and then grill it up until beautifully golden. No special tools, no complicated steps—just a few ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a weekend cookout, or just need something quick and reliable for a Tuesday night, this grilled chicken will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled chicken thighs Recipe

This recipe is one of those magical combinations that ticks every box for a home-cooked meal. First of all, it’s incredibly easy. You’re working with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and the hands-on time is minimal. Just whisk the marinade, soak the chicken, and throw it on the grill. There’s nothing fussy about it, and the flavor payoff is massive.

Let’s talk about flavor for a second. The soy sauce brings that deep, umami base that anchors the entire dish. Ketchup adds tanginess with just a hint of acidity, and the brown sugar balances everything with its mellow sweetness. Then you get that fresh kick from grated ginger and minced garlic, which cuts through the sweetness and adds complexity. When this marinade hits the grill, all of those components come together to create a beautifully sticky, caramelized glaze that clings to the juicy chicken thighs.

Another reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. These grilled chicken thighs are perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying. They also shine as the centerpiece of a backyard barbecue or weekend gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly kid-friendly. That slightly sweet flavor tends to win over even the pickiest eaters, while adults will appreciate the depth and richness of the glaze.

There’s also something special about the texture here. Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender thanks to their slightly higher fat content, which means you don’t have to worry as much about overcooking them. The high heat of the grill locks in moisture while giving you that golden, lightly crisped exterior. And if you like a little extra glaze, you’ve got that reserved marinade for basting, which amps up the flavor even more.

Whether you serve them over fluffy rice, alongside grilled veggies, or sliced into wraps and salads, these chicken thighs adapt to whatever meal you’re planning. You can even meal prep them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Easy, flavorful, family-approved—what’s not to love?

Health Benefits of these Grilled chicken thighs

While this dish is undeniably comforting and full of bold flavor, it also offers several nutritional benefits that make it a smart addition to your meal rotation. Chicken thighs often get overshadowed by chicken breasts in the health world, but they’re actually a great source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

For starters, chicken thighs are rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins like B6 and B12, all of which play a critical role in energy metabolism, immune function, and red blood cell production. The slightly higher fat content in thighs—especially when compared to chicken breasts—means they stay juicy and satisfying, and those healthy fats can help keep you full longer.

Another perk of this recipe is that you’re using a homemade marinade. Store-bought sauces often come with hidden sugars, additives, and preservatives, but when you’re making your own at home, you’re in full control of the ingredients. You can opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage salt intake, and you can even reduce the amount of brown sugar if you’re looking to lower the overall sugar content. The balance of garlic and ginger not only adds flavor but also brings health-boosting properties to the table. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and immune-supportive effects, while ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.

This recipe is also adaptable for a range of dietary needs. If you’re avoiding gluten, swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version or tamari. Want to reduce carbs? Serve the chicken with a light salad or grilled vegetables instead of rice or bread. You can even bulk up the nutrition by pairing this dish with whole grains like quinoa or farro.

Finally, grilling is one of the healthiest cooking methods around. Because you’re not frying or adding excess oils, you’re keeping the calorie count relatively low while still locking in tons of flavor. The high heat helps cook the chicken quickly, sealing in moisture and enhancing taste without needing heavy sauces or creams.

So, while this chicken may taste indulgent with its sweet and savory glaze, it’s actually a well-rounded, protein-packed, and nutrient-dense meal that your body will thank you for—especially when paired with fresh sides and smart swaps.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Getting this dish on the table is refreshingly simple and quick. Most of the time is hands-off, with the chicken marinating while you go about your day. This makes it perfect for meal planning or for busy days when you still want a homemade dinner with real flavor.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating time: 6–24 hours (the longer, the better)
  • Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total time (excluding marinating): Around 30 minutes

Servings:

  • This recipe serves approximately 6 people, depending on portion size and accompaniments. It scales up easily, so feel free to double it if you’re feeding a crowd.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 2 lbs of chicken divided into 6 portions):

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the exact amount of marinade used during basting. If you’re watching your intake closely, you can easily tweak the recipe—use less sugar, opt for low-sodium soy sauce, or skip the basting step to reduce added sugars.

Whether you’re tracking macros or just aiming to eat a bit more mindfully, this recipe fits the bill without sacrificing the taste you crave.

Ingredients List of these Grilled chicken thighs

This ingredient list is short, sweet, and made up of items you probably already have on hand. That’s one of the best parts of this recipe—you don’t have to hunt down anything fancy, yet the final dish tastes like you spent hours on it.

Chicken:

  • 2 to 5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    Chicken thighs are the star of the show here. They stay juicy during grilling, have a rich flavor, and absorb marinades beautifully.

For the Marinade:

  • ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
    This adds a deep umami flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Low-sodium is a great option for keeping salt levels in check.
  • ¾ cup ketchup
    Ketchup brings tangy sweetness and a little acidity to balance the salt and sugar.
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
    Brown sugar helps create that sticky-sweet glaze and caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
  • ⅓ cup chicken broth
    This adds depth and moisture to the marinade, helping it cling to the chicken without being too thick.
  • 2½ teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
    Ginger gives the dish a warm, zesty flavor that cuts through the sweetness and balances the sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
    Garlic is essential for savory depth and rounds out the flavor profile with its natural bite.

These ingredients come together to form a marinade that’s bold, balanced, and downright addictive. Don’t forget to set aside one cup of the marinade for basting while grilling—it makes all the difference in building layers of flavor.

Ready for the next section? Let’s walk through exactly how to bring this recipe to life, one step at a time.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of these Grilled chicken thighs

This recipe may seem fancy once it’s plated up and glazed to perfection, but I promise—it’s as straightforward as they come. Here’s a detailed breakdown to walk you through each stage, so whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned grill master, you’ll end up with perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Be sure to read through the steps before getting started, and don’t skip the tips sprinkled throughout—they’re here to help you make the most of every bite.

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Before you touch the chicken, start by making your marinade. This is where all the magic begins.

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
  • Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and uniform.

The texture should be slightly thick, but still pourable. You want it to coat the chicken nicely without being overly sticky. At this stage, the smell is going to be incredible—sweet, garlicky, and full of that gingery zing.

Helpful Tip: Use a glass or stainless steel bowl when working with soy sauce-based marinades to avoid staining plastic or reacting with aluminum.

Step 2: Reserve Marinade for Basting

Once your marinade is ready, don’t forget this key step:

  • Measure out 1 cup of the marinade and pour it into a separate airtight container.
  • Store this reserved marinade in the fridge until it’s time to grill.

This reserved portion is what you’ll use to baste the chicken as it cooks. It helps build layers of flavor and creates that gorgeous sticky glaze on the surface.

Why This Matters: Using marinade that’s come into contact with raw chicken for basting is unsafe. Always reserve some before adding the chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Now it’s time to introduce the chicken to all that flavor.

  • Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the remaining marinade in the large bowl.
  • Toss gently to ensure each piece is well-coated.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a large zip-top bag.
  • Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight if possible.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 2 hours. The longer the chicken sits, the deeper the flavors penetrate.

Chicken thighs are naturally more forgiving than breasts, so even a short soak will yield delicious results, but an overnight marinade truly brings out the best.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the meat from seizing up on the grill.

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F if using a gas grill).
  • Oil the grates lightly with a brush or a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

If you’re using a charcoal grill: Wait until the coals are hot and covered with a light layer of ash before you start cooking. Spread them out evenly for consistent heat.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Time to get cooking. Grab your tongs, your reserved marinade, and let the grill work its magic.

  • Place the chicken thighs directly on the grill grates, smooth side down.
  • Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without moving them. This allows the surface to caramelize and develop those beautiful grill marks.
  • Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.

Important: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Because chicken thighs can vary in thickness, some pieces may need a minute or two more.

Step 6: Baste With Reserved Marinade

Once both sides of the chicken have good color and are close to being done:

  • Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade.
  • Flip again and baste the other side.
  • Continue to grill for another minute or two on each side, basting as you go.

The sugars in the marinade will begin to bubble and caramelize, forming a shiny, sticky glaze that clings to every bite. Keep a close eye during this stage—the glaze can go from perfect to burnt quickly if the heat is too high.

Optional Broiler Method: If you want extra charred edges, you can transfer the grilled chicken to a broiler for 1–2 minutes after cooking. Just watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Rest the Chicken

This part is often overlooked, but it’s essential.

  • Transfer the cooked chicken to a platter or cutting board.
  • Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.

Pro Tip: Cover the chicken loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm without steaming the glaze.

Step 8: Slice or Serve Whole

Now you get to decide how to serve your chicken. You can slice it into strips for wraps and salads, cube it for rice bowls, or serve it whole alongside your favorite sides.

And there you have it—beautifully glazed, perfectly grilled chicken that’s sweet, savory, and absolutely satisfying. Let’s explore how to serve it to make the most of all that flavor.

Grilled chicken thighs

How to Serve of these Grilled chicken thighs

This grilled chicken is one of those dishes that fits beautifully into just about any meal. It’s hearty enough to be the star of your dinner table, yet flexible enough to be part of a more casual lunch or picnic spread. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

  • Over Steamed Rice or Fried Rice
    This is a classic and satisfying combo. The rice soaks up any leftover glaze, making every bite rich and flavorful.
  • Alongside Grilled or Roasted Vegetables
    Think grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn on the cob. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the glaze perfectly.
  • In a Wrap or Pita
    Slice the chicken and add it to a warm tortilla or pita with crunchy lettuce, sliced cucumber, and a drizzle of yogurt or tahini sauce.
  • On Top of a Salad
    Pair it with a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a sesame-ginger dressing for a lighter, balanced meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Noodles
    For a comfort-food twist, serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles tossed with garlic and herbs.
  • As Part of a BBQ Platter
    Include it alongside grilled corn, baked beans, and a cool coleslaw for a crowd-pleasing summer spread.

Presentation-wise, this chicken looks beautiful garnished with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a few sprigs of cilantro. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need much—just good company and maybe a second helping.

Pairing Suggestions for these Grilled chicken thighs

While this chicken can hold its own, pairing it with the right sides and beverages takes the experience to the next level. Here are some thoughtful pairing ideas to round out your meal:

Side Dish Ideas

  • Coconut Rice or Jasmine Rice
    The subtle sweetness and fluffy texture of coconut rice makes it the perfect canvas for the bold glaze.
  • Asian Slaw
    A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken and adds color to your plate.
  • Garlic Roasted Sweet Potatoes
    Sweet and savory vibes unite when you pair glazed chicken with roasted sweet potato wedges.
  • Cucumber Salad
    Refreshing, crisp, and slightly tangy, cucumber salad brings a cooling contrast to the warm, sticky chicken.
  • Stir-Fried Noodles or Vegetables
    Quick and easy stir-fries are always a hit, especially when tossed in sesame oil or hoisin sauce.

Drink Pairings

Since we’re keeping this halal-friendly, we’re skipping wine suggestions. Instead, here are a few tasty non-alcoholic beverages that complement the flavors:

  • Sparkling Water with Lime
    Clean, crisp, and refreshing—perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the dish.
  • Iced Green Tea or Jasmine Tea
    These floral teas enhance the Asian-inspired flavors and provide a cooling counterpoint to the glaze.
  • Mango or Pineapple Juice
    Fruity drinks work well with grilled chicken, especially when slightly tart to contrast the sugar in the marinade.
  • Cucumber Mint Cooler
    Light and herbal, this mocktail adds a refreshing twist to your grilled meal.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a family feast, these pairings will help you create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the many great things about these sweet and savory grilled chicken thighs is how well they store. Whether you’re making them in advance for a gathering, prepping meals for the week, or saving leftovers from dinner, they hold up beautifully. With the right techniques, you’ll keep them tender, juicy, and just as flavorful as the day they were made.

How to Store Leftovers in the Refrigerator

Once your chicken has cooled to room temperature, it’s time to store any extras.

  • Use an airtight container: Place the cooked chicken in a glass or plastic container with a secure lid. If possible, store the chicken in a single layer to help it cool and reheat evenly later.
  • Refrigerate promptly: Leftover chicken should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Storage life: Properly stored, grilled chicken will last in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.

If you’ve basted the chicken well during cooking, you’ll notice that the glaze helps lock in moisture, so the chicken won’t dry out as quickly. It’s even great cold—try slicing it over a salad or stuffing it into a wrap for a quick lunch the next day.

How to Freeze for Longer Storage

This recipe is also freezer-friendly, which makes it ideal for meal prepping or cooking in bulk.

  • Cool the chicken completely: Before freezing, let the grilled chicken cool down to room temperature.
  • Wrap tightly: Wrap each thigh individually in parchment or wax paper, then place all of them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. You can also use foil or plastic wrap.
  • Label and date: Always label your container with the contents and the date you froze it.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months: For best flavor and texture, use within three months, though it’s safe beyond that if stored properly.

You can also freeze the raw, marinated chicken before grilling. Just place the chicken and marinade into a freezer bag, seal tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to cook, defrost in the fridge overnight, and you’ll be ready to grill the next day.

Reheating Without Drying It Out

Chicken thighs reheat better than chicken breasts because of their fat content, but there are still a few tricks to make sure they come out juicy and flavorful.

In the Oven:

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F.
  • Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water.
  • Cover with foil to keep in moisture.
  • Heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.

On the Stovetop:

  • Add a tablespoon of water or broth to a skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Add the chicken and cover with a lid.
  • Steam for a few minutes, flipping once, until fully warmed.

In the Microwave (Quickest Method):

  • Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
  • Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Tip: Avoid over-reheating, as this can cause the glaze to burn or the chicken to toughen. Just heat until it’s warmed through and tender.

No matter how you reheat it, that sticky glaze will still shine, and the chicken will stay moist and flavorful. Leftovers don’t feel like leftovers with this recipe—they feel like a second chance to enjoy something delicious all over again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in these Grilled chicken thighs

Even a simple recipe can go sideways if you don’t watch out for a few easy-to-miss details. Here are the most common pitfalls when making these grilled chicken thighs—and how to avoid them so you can get perfect results every time.

Using Too Little Marinating Time

While it’s tempting to throw the chicken straight on the grill, skipping or shortening the marinating time is one of the biggest mistakes. The marinade not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it. Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best. If you’re really short on time, go for a minimum of 2 hours.

Forgetting to Reserve Marinade for Basting

This one’s crucial: always set aside a portion of the marinade before adding the chicken. If you don’t, you won’t be able to safely baste the chicken without risking cross-contamination. Basting during grilling builds flavor and enhances that sticky glaze, so it’s worth remembering.

Using High Heat Throughout

High heat is great for creating grill marks and a good sear, but too much can burn the sugars in the marinade before the chicken cooks through. Aim for medium-high heat and manage any flare-ups to avoid charring the chicken. If you’re using charcoal, keep a “cool zone” for indirect heat.

Skipping the Rest Time

Resting isn’t just for steak—chicken needs a few minutes off the grill, too. Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it juicy and tender when you cut into it. Slice too soon, and you risk losing all those flavorful juices on the cutting board.

Not Using a Meat Thermometer

Eyeballing chicken is risky. Undercooked chicken is unsafe, and overcooked chicken can turn dry, even with a glaze. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature hits 165°F. It takes the guesswork out and gives you peace of mind.

Avoid these simple mistakes, and you’ll be well on your way to making flawless grilled chicken thighs that are full of flavor, beautifully glazed, and perfectly cooked every time.

Pro Tips of these Grilled chicken thighs

If you want to take your sweet and savory grilled chicken to the next level, these tips will help you go from “pretty good” to “absolutely unforgettable.” Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, these ideas will add finesse and flavor to your cooking routine.

Pat the Chicken Dry Before Marinating

Before adding the chicken to the marinade, pat it dry with paper towels. This removes excess surface moisture, which allows the marinade to adhere better and creates more even browning on the grill.

Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger

Fresh is best when it comes to aromatics. Pre-minced garlic and ginger pastes may save time, but they often lack the punch and complexity of freshly minced or grated versions. The bold, zesty flavor of fresh ginger and garlic truly brings this marinade to life.

Grill with the Lid Closed

Closing the grill lid creates an oven-like environment that helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps it juicy. It also enhances the smoky flavor and prevents flare-ups from charring the outside too quickly.

Let the Chicken Come to Room Temperature

Before grilling, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it rest on the counter for about 20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly and reduces the risk of it being raw in the center while overcooked on the edges.

Double the Marinade (If You Love Extra Sauce)

If you’re a sauce lover, consider making an extra batch of the marinade to use as a drizzle when serving. Just be sure to keep it completely separate from the one used for marinating raw chicken. You can even simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to thicken it into a sticky dipping sauce.

With these simple tips, you’ll bring out the absolute best in this dish. Every detail—from how you handle the chicken to how you manage the grill—makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! While chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, chicken breasts work as well. Just keep in mind that they can dry out more easily. Reduce grill time slightly and keep a close eye on the internal temperature to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely. If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake the chicken in the oven. To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F and roast the chicken on a foil-lined sheet for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. You can broil for the last 2 minutes to mimic that caramelized grill finish.

Is this recipe spicy?

Nope! This recipe is sweet and savory with zero heat. However, if you like a little kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is very make-ahead friendly. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also grill the chicken and store it in the fridge or freezer to reheat later.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part—there should be no pink and the juices should run clear.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken raw?

Definitely! Place the raw chicken and marinade in a freezer bag, press out the air, and seal tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

No worries! You can substitute with water, vegetable broth, or even a splash of apple juice for a sweet twist.

Can I grill the chicken on skewers?

Yes, especially if you’re using smaller thigh pieces or want to make kebabs. Just thread the marinated chicken onto metal or soaked wooden skewers and grill as usual.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always double-check ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I use this marinade on other proteins?

Absolutely! This marinade works beautifully with shrimp, beef strips, tofu, or even salmon. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Next, we’ll wrap things up with a final thought and invite you to bring this dish into your own kitchen. Ready for the last bite? Let’s go.

Conclusion & Call to Action

By now, you’ve walked through every step of creating these sweet and savory grilled chicken thighs—from making the simple marinade to mastering the grill, and even how to reheat leftovers like a pro. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s one of those go-to dishes that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation. It’s easy, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to fit your needs, whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weeknight or firing up the grill for a weekend cookout with friends.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated techniques. You just need a few everyday ingredients, a grill (or oven), and a little time to let those rich flavors come together. The marinade does most of the work for you, infusing the chicken with a perfectly balanced mix of sweet, salty, tangy, and savory. Then the grill adds that smoky finish that ties everything together in the most delicious way.

Whether you serve this dish over rice, pair it with fresh veggies, slice it into wraps, or enjoy it straight off the grill, it never fails to satisfy. Plus, it stores and reheats like a dream, making it an ideal option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try. Fire up your grill (or preheat that oven), grab those chicken thighs, and whisk up this marinade that’s about to become your secret weapon in the kitchen. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your finished dish and tag me—I’d absolutely love to see how it turns out for you. Whether you’re plating it up for your family or impressing friends at a barbecue, I promise you this: everyone will be asking for the recipe.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for spending time here. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and flavor to your kitchen as it has to mine. You’ve got all the tools, tips, and inspiration you need—now all that’s left to do is cook, eat, and enjoy every last bite.

Happy grilling!

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Grilled chicken thighs

Grilled Chicken Thighs – Sweet and Savory Sticky Marinade


  • Author: Sophia Bennett
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in a sticky-sweet glaze made with soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Full of bold flavor and perfect for easy weeknight dinners, weekend BBQs, or make-ahead meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • ¾ cup ketchup

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • ⅓ cup chicken broth

  • 2½ tsp fresh ginger, grated

  • 2 tsp garlic, minced


Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, broth, ginger, and garlic.

  • Reserve 1 cup marinade for basting.

  • Add chicken thighs to remaining marinade. Toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight.

  • Preheat grill to medium-high.

  • Grill chicken 3–4 minutes per side, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.

  • Baste with reserved marinade while grilling for extra flavor and glaze.

  • Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

– For oven method, bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.
– Reserve marinade before adding raw chicken to avoid contamination.
– Marinate overnight for best flavor.
– Broil last 2 minutes for crisp edges.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Grilling
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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