Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
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If you’re looking to shake up your grill routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor, I’ve got just the thing—a simple yet irresistible sweet and spicy rub for chicken that’s been a game changer at our house. Don’t let the word “spicy” scare you off—it’s all about flavor, not heat! This blend brings a warm kick balanced by subtle sweetness, and I first discovered it in Simple and Delicious magazine, where it instantly caught my eye as the kind of recipe that’s equal parts easy and crave-worthy.
It’s the perfect weeknight fix: just mix the rub, coat your chicken, and pop it on the grill. In no time, you’ll have juicy, beautifully seasoned chicken with a caramelized crust and bold flavor that feels like summer in every bite. I absolutely loved it, and it’s so versatile that it goes beyond just the grill—try slicing it up for a Tex-Mex-inspired salad with black beans, cheddar, chopped tomato, tortilla strips, and a creamy salsa-ranch dressing. Trust me, you’ll be finding excuses to make this chicken again and again.
Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
- BROWN SUGAR
- PAPRIKA
- ONION POWDER
- SALT
- CHILI POWDER
- BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST HALVES
Instructions for Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
Start by creating the seasoning blend. In a small bowl, mix together the first five ingredients—these bring a perfect balance of sweet heat and smoky depth. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of your boneless chicken breasts, pressing lightly so the flavors really soak in.
Next, get your grill ready for action. Coat the grill grates with nonstick cooking spray or brush with olive oil to help prevent sticking, then preheat to medium-high heat.
Place chicken on the hot grill, cover, and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side. Flip just once for beautiful grill marks and even cooking. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 170°F—juicy, tender, and packed with bold flavor.
This recipe yields 5 servings, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or laid-back weekend cookouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick grilling and even cooking. You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness—just adjust the grill time slightly.
Is this recipe spicy-hot or just flavorful?
It’s more flavorful-spicy than hot. The rub brings warmth and depth without overwhelming heat, making it family-friendly and easy to customize.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the rub and season the chicken up to a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge until ready to grill.
What temperature should the chicken reach when done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for 170°F in the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I cook this indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or broiler if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Just keep an eye on the cook time and flip halfway through.
What sides pair well with sweet and spicy grilled chicken?
Try grilled corn, black bean salad, mango slaw, or a Tex-Mex inspired salad with salsa-ranch dressing. It’s also great sliced into wraps or tacos!
How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking, or brush the chicken with a little olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and gives a nice char.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Chicken
- Southwest Grilled Chicken
- Chili Lime Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Taco Chicken
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp paprika
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 5 boneless skinless chicken breast halves 6 ounces each
Instructions
- Combine the first five ingredients; rub over chicken.
- Coat grill rack with cooking spray for grills or brush with olive oil before starting the grill. Grill chicken, covered, for 4-5 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 170°. Yield: 5 servings.
