Description
This Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated to perfection and grilled to achieve a smoky, flavorful crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout, these chicken thighs are juicy inside with a slightly charred exterior, enhanced by optional fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 1 batch chicken thigh marinade or chicken marinade (see recipe or use your favorite marinade)
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or thyme)
- Lemon or lime juice
Grilling
- Oil for grilling (such as vegetable oil or olive oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Combine your chosen ingredients to create the chicken thigh marinade or use a pre-made marinade. Common marinades include olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, and spices. Mix well to distribute flavors evenly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, approximately 400°F (205°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking and to promote nice grill marks on your chicken thighs.
- Grill the Chicken Thighs: Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is nicely charred and juicy.
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken thighs to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Serve and Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the cooked chicken and add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to brighten up the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Marinating time can be extended to overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Skin-on chicken thighs can be used if preferred, but adjust grilling time accordingly.
- If grilling outdoors is unavailable, an indoor grill pan can be used as a substitute.
