These grilled boneless chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! Marinated to perfection, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ with friends.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with these! I love how easy they are to grill — just season, marinate, and let the grill do its magic. You’ll want to make extra for leftovers, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for grilling because they stay juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts can work, but they might dry out faster without careful cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. If you’re low on olive oil, you can use any vegetable oil or even melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: It provides saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free alternative, choose tamari sauce or coconut aminos. Both will give a similar taste!
Honey: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used if you’re vegan or want a different flavor.
Dijon Mustard: It brings a nice tang. If you’re not a fan, yellow mustard will work, but expect a different punch. You could also skip it for a sweeter marinade.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts flavor, but garlic powder or even garlic-infused olive oil can substitute in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Grilled Perfectly?
Getting that juicy grilled chicken is all about timing and temperature. First, marinating adds flavor and moisture, so let it sit for at least an hour. When grilling:
- Preheat your grill well: Aim for medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the grill: Give each piece space to cook evenly. This prevents steaming.
- Only flip once: Avoid flipping too often; let each side cook for about 6-7 minutes or until you see nice grill marks.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Rest is key: Letting it rest for 5 minutes before serving keeps the juices inside, making it tender and flavorful.
Best Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (or overnight for best flavor). Cooking on the grill will take an additional 12-14 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend a little over an hour for this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a tasty marinade that adds flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour—if you can, let it sit overnight to soak up even more flavor.
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, spread the coals evenly and wait until they are ashy—this ensures even cooking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and see those lovely grill marks!
5. Rest and Garnish:
After cooking, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your flavorful grilled boneless chicken thighs with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken thighs, but keep in mind they’ll take a bit longer to cook. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Be sure to check the meat near the bone for doneness!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let them sit overnight. Just remember to keep them covered in the fridge to keep them safe and flavorful!
What Can I Substitute for Honey in the Marinade?
If you need a honey substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. You can also use a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option; just adjust the amount to taste, as they can vary in sweetness.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the grill to maintain their flavor and texture. For long-term storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months!
