These grilled chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! The secret lies in the simple marinade that makes each bite a tasty delight. Perfect for any BBQ!
Honestly, what’s not to love? Whenever I make these, my friends gather like magic. And the best part? They’re so easy to cook—just grill and enjoy the compliments!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender on the grill. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken breasts can work too, but you may need to adjust cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for marinades due to its rich flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and can handle high heat. Grapeseed oil is another great choice if you want a more neutral flavor.
Honey: This adds the perfect touch of sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, you could use maple syrup or agave nectar as a natural alternative. Brown sugar can also work if you mix it into the marinade well.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor, but regular paprika is fine if you can’t find it. Ground cumin provides depth; however, you can use curry powder for a different twist if you want to experiment!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The marinade is key for keeping the chicken moist and flavorful! Don’t skip on marinating time. I prefer to let the chicken marinate overnight, but even a few hours will help. Make sure the chicken is completely coated in the marinade, and don’t be afraid to massage it in for best results.
- Whisk all marinade ingredients together until smooth.
- Coat chicken thighs well and cover tightly before refrigerating.
Also, when grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and delicious!
How to Make The Ultimate Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For The Chicken:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of hands-on preparation time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating. If you can, marinate overnight for the best flavor! Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes. So, set aside some time to enjoy your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you like some heat. This mixture is going to bring amazing flavors to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken Thighs:
Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for even better taste, let it sit overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to allow for direct cooking. You want the grill hot and ready for some deliciousness!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting the extra marinade drip off. Throw away any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want them nicely charred and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay in the chicken. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. And there you have it, your ultimate grilled chicken thighs are ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will work well, but they may require a longer cooking time—aim for about 10-12 minutes per side. Just be sure to check that the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, try using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free choice that adds a slightly sweeter flavor. Both will work well in the marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken Thighs?
You can marinate the chicken thighs for as little as 1 hour and up to 24 hours in the fridge. However, for maximum flavor, I recommend marinating overnight!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can either use the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat to keep them tender.
