Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for grilling. They are more forgiving than chicken breasts and deliver a richer flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to achieve perfectly grilled, juicy chicken thighs every time.
Why Chicken Thighs?
Many people think of chicken breast as the prime cut, but thighs offer several advantages. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and remain juicy even when cooked at high temperatures. They are also more affordable and adaptable to various recipes, making them a go-to option for a quick and delicious protein source.
What You’ll Need
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless or bone-in, skin-on, depending on your preference)
- Marinade or seasoning of your choice
- Olive oil (if using dry seasonings)
- Grill
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Bowl or resealable bag
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Chicken Thighs
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Choose Your Cut: Boneless, skinless thighs are quicker to cook, while bone-in, skin-on thighs offer maximum moisture and flavor.
- Pat Dry: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier exterior.
- Trim: Check for any bone fragments left behind from processing and remove them.
2. Marinate or Season
A good marinade or seasoning blend can take your grilled chicken thighs to the next level.
Marinade Recipe
- 1 cup olive oil
- ½ cup white wine vinegar
- ½ cup white wine
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Dry Rub Recipe
- 1½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a bowl or resealable bag, combine the chicken thighs with your chosen marinade or dry rub.
- Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- If marinating, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. If using a dry rub, let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
3. Prepare the Grill
- Clean the Grates: Make sure your grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.
- Preheat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F).
- Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grilling the Chicken Thighs
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs directly on the grill grates.
- Grill: Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side for boneless, skinless thighs, or 8-10 minutes per side for bone-in, skin-on thighs.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the grill, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier piece of chicken.
Tips for Grilling Success
- Avoid Overcrowding: Grill the chicken thighs in batches to maintain even heat and proper searing.
- Don’t Press Down: Avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling, as this squeezes out the juices and dries out the meat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the grill temperature or move the thighs to a cooler part of the grill.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve with a dill yogurt sauce.
- BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs: Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a marinade or baste the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Grilled Chicken Thighs with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley to your marinade or dry rub for an herbaceous flavor.
Serve your grilled chicken thighs with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, salad, rice, or roasted potatoes.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken thighs is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a delicious meal. With the right preparation and technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken thighs that will impress your family and friends.