How to Grill Chicken Thighs

Updated at: 15/12/2024

The humble chicken thigh, often overlooked in favor of its breast counterpart, is a grilling powerhouse. Juicy, flavorful, and forgiving even to a novice cook, chicken thighs offer unmatched versatility on the grill. Whether you're a seasoned grilling pro or just starting your culinary adventures, mastering the art of grilling chicken thighs opens a world of delicious possibilities. From simple salt and pepper to vibrant marinades and bold rubs, the flavor combinations are endless, resulting in succulent, perfectly charred meat that's sure to impress.

Forget dry, overcooked chicken – this guide will take you through each step, ensuring juicy, flavorful perfection every time. We'll cover everything from selecting the right cut and prepping your chicken to mastering the grilling techniques and achieving that perfect balance of smoky char and tender interior. Let's dive into the delicious details and learn how to grill chicken thighs like a pro!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always ensure your chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh.
  • Avoid cross-contamination. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and cooked foods. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken.
  • Never leave grilled chicken unattended. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken Thighs

    • Debone chicken thighs by cutting around the bone and pulling it out. Flatten the thighs.
    • Marinate chicken thighs in Italian salad dressing for a few hours in the refrigerator.
    • Season chicken thighs with homemade barbecue rub.
    Season chicken thighs with homemade barbecue rub.Season chicken thighs with homemade barbecue rub.Season chicken thighs with homemade barbecue rub.
    Prepare Chicken Thighs

  2. Prepare the Grill

    • Prepare the grill with lump charcoal.
    Prepare the grill with lump charcoal.
    Prepare the Grill

  3. Grill Chicken Thighs (Direct Heat)

    • Place marinated and seasoned chicken thighs on a hot grill.
    • Sear both sides of the chicken thighs until slightly charred.
    Sear both sides of the chicken thighs until slightly charred.Sear both sides of the chicken thighs until slightly charred.
    Grill Chicken Thighs (Direct Heat)

  4. Grill Chicken Thighs (Indirect Heat)

    • Move the chicken thighs to an indirect heat zone of the grill and close the lid.
    • Glaze chicken thighs with barbecue sauce (optional).
    • Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    Grill Chicken Thighs (Indirect Heat)

  5. Serve

    • Remove from grill and serve.
    Remove from grill and serve.
    Serve

Read more: How to Grill a Turkey

Tips

  • Marinating the chicken in Italian dressing adds flavor and makes it more tender.
  • Be cautious when grilling as the oil in the marinade may cause flare-ups.
  • Don't overcook the chicken; aim for a slight char on each side before moving to indirect heat.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Grill

Reason: Overcrowding prevents proper airflow, leading to uneven cooking and potentially steaming instead of grilling.
Solution: Ensure adequate space between chicken thighs for even heat distribution.

2. Not Checking for Doneness

Reason: Undercooked chicken can cause foodborne illness. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough.
Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

FAQs

How long does it take to grill chicken thighs?
Grilling time depends on the thickness of your thighs and your grill's heat. Generally, bone-in, skin-on thighs take 20-30 minutes at medium heat, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I prevent my chicken thighs from drying out?
Brining or marinating your chicken thighs beforehand adds moisture and flavor. Also, don't overcrowd the grill; this lowers the temperature and leads to steaming instead of grilling. Finally, use a meat thermometer to ensure you don't overcook them.
What's the best temperature to grill chicken thighs?
Medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C) is ideal for chicken thighs. High heat can lead to burning before the inside is cooked through, while low heat will take too long and dry them out.