Grilling chicken thighs is one of the best ways to enjoy tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any occasion-from casual family dinners to summer BBQ parties. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook chicken thighs on the grill so they come out perfectly every time, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from prepping and seasoning to grilling techniques and tips for mouthwatering results.
Why Choose Chicken Thighs for Grilling?
Chicken thighs are a grilling superstar for several reasons:
– Juicier and More Flavorful: Unlike chicken breasts, thighs have more fat and connective tissue, which keeps them moist and packed with flavor even under high heat.
– Forgiving to Cook: They’re more forgiving if slightly overcooked, unlike breasts that can dry out quickly.
– Versatile: They work well with a variety of marinades, rubs, and sauces, making them perfect for experimenting with flavors.
Preparing Your Chicken Thighs for the Grill
1. Select Your Chicken Thighs
You can use boneless skinless, bone-in skin-on, or boneless skin-on thighs. Bone-in skin-on thighs take a bit longer to cook but offer extra flavor and juiciness. Boneless skinless cook faster and are great for quick meals.
2. Pat Them Dry
Remove excess moisture by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a nice sear and crispy skin on the grill.
3. Season or Marinate
– Dry Rub: Combine spices like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the thighs in the rub with a little oil to help it stick.
– Marinade: Use your favorite marinade-olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, or BBQ sauce work well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for deeper flavor.
Setting Up Your Grill
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350°F to 450°F (175°C to 230°C).
– Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
– If using a charcoal grill, arrange coals to create a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for finishing the cooking.
– For gas grills, you can turn off one burner to create indirect heat for slower cooking after searing.
How to Grill Chicken Thighs Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sear Over Direct Heat
– Place the chicken thighs skin side down on the grill.
– Grill for about 6-7 minutes without moving them to develop beautiful grill marks and crispy skin.
– Watch for flare-ups caused by fat dripping; move the chicken if needed to avoid burning.
Step 2: Flip and Sear the Other Side
– Flip the thighs and grill for another 3-5 minutes.
– If you’re using BBQ sauce, start brushing it on during this stage to build layers of flavor.
Step 3: Move to Indirect Heat
– Transfer the chicken to the cooler part of the grill.
– Close the lid and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for safety and juiciness.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
– Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes off the grill.
– This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs
– Don’t skip the oil: Whether in a marinade or rubbed on dry spices, oil helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
– Avoid flipping too often: Let the chicken develop a crust before flipping to prevent tearing and sticking.
– Experiment with flavors: Chicken thighs are a blank canvas. Try spice blends like shawarma, jerk seasoning, or smoky BBQ rubs.
Flavor Ideas and Serving Suggestions
– Classic BBQ: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of grilling.
– Lemon Garlic: Marinate with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a fresh, zesty flavor.
– Spicy Sriracha or Chipotle: Add a kick with spicy marinades or dry rubs.
– Serve with grilled vegetables, salads, or over rice and grain bowls for a complete meal.
Grilling chicken thighs is straightforward and rewarding. With the right prep, seasoning, and grilling technique, you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside every time. Fire up your grill and get ready to impress!
Enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken thighs!