Preheat your grill or oven to a steady medium-high heat. You want a nice sizzle, not a panic attack from the flame.
Whisk honey and hot sauce together in a small bowl until smooth. This is the glue that holds the party together.
In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. It should look like a little spice rainbow.
Pat your protein dry, then rub generously with the dry spice blend. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor lives.
Brush a thin layer of the honey-hot sauce on the surface. This isn’t marinade; it’s the glaze that carves memories into your taste buds.
Grill or roast until the meat hits your preferred doneness. Baste once or twice with the remaining honey-hot sauce for a glossy finish.
Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. Juices settle, flavors settle, everyone’s happy.
