Name: Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 batch chicken thigh marinade or chicken marinade; Chopped fresh herbs for serving (optional); Lemon or lime juice for serving (optional); Oil for grilling

This mouthwatering grilled chicken thighs recipe delivers tender, flavor-packed meat with irresistibly caramelized edges every single time. Ready in less than an hour with mostly hands-off cooking time, these chicken thighs are perfect for busy weeknights but tasty enough for weekend entertaining!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Foolproof Juiciness: Chicken thighs naturally stay moist and tender during grilling – no culinary degree required!
Flavor-Packed: The marinade infuses the meat with amazing depth while the grill adds that unmistakable smokiness we all crave.
Versatile: These grilled thighs pair perfectly with virtually any side dish – from simple salads to hearty grains.
Budget-Friendly: Chicken thighs cost significantly less than breasts but deliver more flavor and forgiveness during cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The star of the show – naturally juicy and more forgiving than breast meat when grilled. Their higher fat content means they stay tender even if slightly overcooked.
Marinade: Use either a dedicated chicken thigh marinade or all-purpose chicken marinade. The marinade adds flavor while also tenderizing the meat.
Fresh herbs: Optional for garnishing but adds a bright, fresh note to the finished dish.
Lemon or lime juice: A final squeeze brightens everything up and cuts through the richness.
Oil: For greasing the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Flavor Profiles

Mediterranean: Add lemon zest, oregano, and minced garlic to your marinade
Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil for the marinade
Spicy Kick: Add chipotle powder or cayenne to your marinade for heat lovers
BBQ Style: Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last minute of grilling

Cooking Methods

Stovetop Grill Pan: Perfect for apartment dwellers – follow the same timing
Oven Baking: Great for year-round cooking (see detailed instructions in the recipe)
Air Fryer: Cook at 380°F for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through

How to Make Grilled Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine your chosen marinade ingredients in a large zip-top bag, then add the chicken thighs. Seal and massage the bag to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Place in a bowl or pan to catch any leaks. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 12 hours (5-6 hours is ideal for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Prepare for Grilling

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). If your chicken has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. Clean the grill grates thoroughly and oil them to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on the grill with the smooth side facing down, shaking off excess marinade first. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes. When ready to flip, the meat should release easily from the grates. If it’s sticking, let it cook another minute before trying again.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

After flipping, continue grilling for another 4-6 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155-160°F. The carryover heat will bring it to the safe 165°F while resting.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove chicken from the grill and place on a plate. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for at least 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Finish with optional fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the Marinade: Even 15 minutes makes a difference in flavor and juiciness.
Watch the Temperature: Chicken thighs are done at 165°F, but removing them at 155-160°F prevents overcooking.
Let Them Rest: The 5-minute rest period is crucial for redistributing juices throughout the meat.
Grill Marks Matter: For those restaurant-quality grill marks, resist the urge to move the chicken around after placing it on the grill.
Thickness Matters: If your thighs vary greatly in thickness, consider pounding the thicker ones slightly for more even cooking.

How to Serve Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs

These grilled chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with numerous sides:

Light Meals

Serve with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or cucumber-tomato salad for a lighter option.

Heartier Options

Pair with rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or creamy polenta for a more substantial meal.

Sandwich Style

Slice and serve in warm pita with tzatziki, or on a toasted bun with slaw for a delicious sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They actually make fantastic leftovers!

Freezing

These grilled chicken thighs freeze beautifully. Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a 350°F oven covered with foil until just warmed through (about 10 minutes). Alternatively, microwave at 70% power with a damp paper towel over the chicken to maintain moisture. Avoid high heat which will dry out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs have even more flavor, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F in the thickest part not touching bone.

What’s the minimum time for marinating?
While even 15 minutes will add flavor, try to aim for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. The longer you marinate (up to 12 hours in the refrigerator), the more flavorful your chicken will be. Beyond 12 hours, the acid in most marinades can start to break down the meat too much.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Three key steps: ensure your grill is properly preheated, clean the grates thoroughly, and oil them well before cooking. Also, the chicken will naturally release from the grates when it’s ready to flip – if it’s sticking badly, it likely needs another minute of cooking.

Can I make these chicken thighs without a grill?
Definitely! The oven method works wonderfully – just follow the notes in the recipe for oven grilling at 425°F. You can also use a stovetop grill pan or even air fry them. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

These grilled chicken thighs are the perfect combination of simple preparation and incredible flavor. The marinade does most of the heavy lifting, while the quick grilling time means you won’t be slaving over a hot grill for long. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight family dinner or weekend gathering with friends, these juicy, flavor-packed chicken thighs will quickly become a staple in your cooking rotation. Try them tonight – your taste buds will thank you!