Scottish Grilled Hot Toddy Glazed Chicken
Introduction
Experience the rich, smoky flavors of Scotland with this Grilled Hot Toddy Glazed Chicken. Using an Arteflame grill, we achieve an incredible steakhouse-quality sear at over 1,000°F on the center grill grate, locking in the juices and flavor of tender chicken thighs. Finished on the flat cooktop griddle, this reverse-seared dish carries a perfect balance of sweet whisky and honey glaze, making it irresistibly delicious. Get ready to impress your guests with an incredibly flavorful Scottish-inspired meal straight from the grill!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup Scotch whisky
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
- Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
- Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together whisky, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
- Place the chicken thighs on the center grill grate at 1,000°F for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once a beautiful sear is achieved, move them to the flat cooktop griddle.
Step 4: Cook to perfection
- Brush the chicken thighs generously with the prepared glaze.
- Cook on the flat top griddle at medium heat, skin-side down first, for about 10-12 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes, brushing occasionally with more glaze.
Step 5: Check doneness & rest
- Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes (it will continue cooking to 165°F).
Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, making it more flavorful.
- Baste frequently with glaze for a richer, more caramelized finish.
- Cooking closer to the center of the griddle will give you higher heat if needed.
Variations
-
Spiced Maple Glaze: Swap out honey for maple syrup and add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
-
Citrus Whisky Glaze: Add orange zest and juice to the glaze for a bright, zesty flavor.
-
Ginger Honey Glaze: Incorporate fresh grated ginger for a bold and slightly spicy glaze.
-
Smoky BBQ Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of smoked paprika and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a BBQ twist.
-
Sweet & Savory Herbal Glaze: Add finely chopped rosemary and thyme to balance the sweetness with an earthy depth.
Conclusion
This Scottish Hot Toddy Glazed Chicken delivers a mouthwatering blend of smoky, sweet, and slightly spiced flavors, all enhanced by the Arteflame grill’s powerful searing capabilities. Whether for a special gathering or a casual cookout, this recipe ensures a juicy, perfectly glazed, and incredibly delicious grilled chicken experience.
Best Pairings
- Grilled garlic butter asparagus
- Charred sweet potatoes with cinnamon
- Whisky-glazed grilled peaches
- Warm buttered artisan bread
- A glass of fine Scotch whisky