Grilled Chicken Thighs
A juicy and flavorful recipe for grilled chicken thighs with a customizable marinade, perfect for barbecues or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6–8 pieces bone-in or boneless skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or lemon juice) Substitute with lemon juice for a lighter flavor.
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar Maple syrup is a great alternative.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adding garlic powder can be quicker.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Regular paprika or cayenne can be used as substitutes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well-coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for a deeper flavor.
Cooking
- Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down if applicable. Grill for about 6–8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is nicely charred.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly. Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain moisture. Avoid flipping too often while grilling to achieve a nice crust.