Who doesn't love a juicy, flavorful piece of grilled chicken thigh? Not only is it tender and delicious, but it's also a healthier choice compared to other cuts of meat. This simple recipe is perfect for both weekday dinners and weekend barbecues. Using basic ingredients, the chicken thighs are marinated to soak up all the incredible flavors before hitting the grill.
The result is a mouth-watering piece of chicken with a nice char and smoky flavor. It's an easy-to-follow recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The secret lies in the marinade – a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. This marinade allows the chicken to tenderize and absorb all the amazing flavors while preserving its juiciness. The process ensures each bite of your chicken is packed with taste, setting this recipe apart from many other grilled chicken recipes.
Another reason why this recipe works so well is the use of chicken thighs. Thighs are known for their inherent juiciness and flavor. They're also quite forgiving on the grill, not drying out as easily as other cuts like the breast. This makes them perfect for grilling novices and experts alike. Plus, the crispy, charred skin achieved from grilling adds another layer of texture and flavor. It's an absolute treat to your palate. So whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is worth giving a try!
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs - Choose bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer less fat, you can use skinless, boneless thighs.
Olive Oil - It helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling and adds a subtle, savory taste. If you don't have olive oil, canola or avocado oil can be good substitutes.
Garlic - Fresh minced garlic will provide a robust flavor. If fresh isn't available, garlic powder can be used, but the flavor may not be as pronounced.
Lemon Juice - Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the chicken a refreshing tanginess. If you're out of lemons, vinegar or even orange juice can work as a substitute.
Spices (Paprika, Thyme, Salt, Pepper) - These season the chicken and give it depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like cayenne for heat or rosemary for a woodsy note.
Tips
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling to help the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Make sure your grill is hot before you start cooking the chicken to get those beautiful grill marks and to ensure even cooking.
- Don't forget to oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Keep a close eye on the chicken as it grills; chicken thighs can burn easily because of their high fat content.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
How to Serve
Grilled chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Their smoky, savory flavor pairs well with many different sides, so you have plenty of options to choose from depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Pair with Salads: Toss the grilled chicken thighs in a green salad for a protein-packed lunch or dinner. A Caesar or Greek salad could be excellent choices.
- With Grilled Veggies: Serve your chicken thighs alongside some grilled veggies for a summer barbecue feel. Think corn on the cob, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- In Tacos or Wraps: Slice the grilled chicken thighs and use them as a filling for tacos or wraps, adding your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Similar Recipes
Sweet and Sour Baked Chicken Thighs
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss until well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Cook for 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (reaches an internal temperature of 165°F).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling to help the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Make sure your grill is hot before you start cooking the chicken to get those beautiful grill marks and to ensure even cooking.
- Don't forget to oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Keep a close eye on the chicken as it grills; chicken thighs can burn easily because of their high fat content.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.