There is something truly magical about the combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors coming together in a single dish, and that’s exactly what you get with this Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe. Perfectly grilled chicken breasts glazed with a luscious hot honey sauce are paired with a vibrant, zesty corn salad bursting with fresh lime and herbs. Every bite brings a delightful burst of flavor and texture, making it an ideal meal to enjoy any time you’re craving something fresh, easy, and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role to build the bold and balanced flavors of the Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe. From the smoky spices on the chicken to the fresh brightness of the lime corn salad, every component adds both taste and color that make this dish pop.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein that grills evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds a silky texture to the salad.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky undertone that complements the honey’s sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering the other spices.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 cup hot honey: The star glaze that gives the chicken a sweet heat kick—substitute with honey mixed with red pepper flakes if unavailable.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Adds a touch of tang and complexity to the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional): Brightens up the glaze with citrus freshness.
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen): Adds sweetness and crunch with a summery vibe.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Introduces color and a mild sweetness to the salad.
- 1/2 red onion, diced: Provides a slight bite and sharpness that balances the salad.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Bursts of herbal freshness that lift every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Binds the salad ingredients and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: The key ingredient to add zing and brighten all the flavors in the salad.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional): Adds a smoky heat if you prefer more spice in the salad.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and enhances all ingredients.
How to Make Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels, which helps them grill with a nice crust. Combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl and rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts. This spice blend will give your chicken that irresistible smoky and savory flavor base before it hits the grill.
Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the hot honey along with the optional apple cider vinegar and lime juice, stirring until everything is well combined. This glaze not only brings sweetness and heat but also a subtle tang from the vinegar and lime that balances the richness of the chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side, brushing the hot honey glaze generously over the chicken during the last few minutes. This will create a sticky, caramelized coating that locks in the juiciness and delivers that mouthwatering hit of sweet heat every time.
Step 4: Prepare the Lime Corn Salad
While the chicken is grilling, toss together the corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro in a large bowl. Drizzle olive oil and fresh lime juice over the veggies and sprinkle with chili powder if you want an extra spark. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything thoroughly. This salad adds a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the tender, glazed chicken.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is grilled to perfection and the salad dressed and tossed, plate them side by side. Spoon any extra hot honey glaze over the chicken for an extra glossy, flavorful finish. This balanced plate offers a delightful play of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds.
How to Serve Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few lime wedges on the side instantly adds brightness and a fresh aroma to this dish. To elevate your presentation, consider adding thinly sliced red chili for extra color and heat, or a scattering of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy jasmine rice, or even grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. Each side will complement the smoky-sweet flavor profile without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive setting, serve the grilled chicken sliced in strips over a bed of the lime corn salad in large, colorful bowls. You can also stuff the chicken into warm tortillas and top with the salad for delicious tacos, perfect for casual dinners or summer cookouts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grilled chicken and lime corn salad in airtight containers and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for easy lunch or dinner options when you’re short on time.
Freezing
The grilled chicken freezes nicely if stored properly in freezer-safe bags or containers. However, the lime corn salad is best enjoyed fresh since freezing can affect the texture, especially of the peppers and fresh herbs.
Reheating
Warm leftover chicken gently in the oven or on a skillet to preserve its juicy texture and avoid drying out. The lime corn salad should be served cold or at room temperature—just give it a quick stir and perhaps a splash of fresh lime juice before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?
Absolutely! If you don’t have hot honey on hand, simply mix regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes to create that perfect balance of sweet and spicy for the glaze.
Is it necessary to add apple cider vinegar in the glaze?
The apple cider vinegar is optional but highly recommended because it adds a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness of the honey and brightens up the overall flavor.
Can I make the lime corn salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just add the fresh cilantro and lime juice right before serving to keep everything tasting vibrant.
What if I don’t have a grill—can I use a grill pan or oven?
Definitely! A grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly, or you can broil the chicken in your oven, just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning the honey glaze.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts for another protein?
Of course. Thighs, drumsticks, or even pork chops can be used with this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through and juicy.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about the harmony of heat, sweetness, and brightness that comes with this Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe. It’s a dish that feels both special and effortless, perfect for sharing with friends or a cozy family dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the delicious layers of flavor that make it one of my absolute favorites.
Print
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Hot Honey Chicken with Lime Corn Salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Juicy boneless chicken breasts are seasoned with smoky spices and grilled to perfection, then brushed with a sticky, hot honey glaze. Served alongside a vibrant lime-infused corn salad with fresh bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro, this dish is a refreshing and satisfying meal perfect for any grilling occasion.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Hot Honey Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
For the Lime Corn Salad
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the hot honey. Stir in apple cider vinegar and lime juice if using, to add a tangy brightness to the glaze. Set aside.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with the hot honey glaze to create a sticky, flavorful coating.
- Prepare the Lime Corn Salad: If using fresh corn, boil or grill the ears until tender, then cut kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, thaw and drain well. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and fresh lime juice over the corn mixture. Sprinkle with chili powder if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss well to combine all the flavors.
- Serve: Place the grilled hot honey chicken on plates alongside a generous serving of the lime corn salad. Garnish with extra lime wedges or cilantro if desired. Enjoy immediately while the chicken is warm and juicy.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred; adjust grilling time accordingly.
- For a milder version, use regular honey and skip the red pepper flakes.
- The lime corn salad is great served chilled or at room temperature.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Add avocado or jalapeños to the corn salad for extra creaminess or heat.
