Grilled boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for any cookout! They have a lovely char and can soak up all your favorite marinades.
These thighs are tender and never dry, making them a crowd-pleaser. I like to serve them with a side of fresh veggies or on a bun—easy and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for grilling since they stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily. Go for thighs if you want more flavor and tenderness!
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil is a good substitute due to its high smoke point.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work too, just use a bit less as it’s often more concentrated.
Spices & Herbs: Smoked paprika brings a lovely smoky flavor. If it’s not available, regular paprika or chili powder can also add a nice touch. Ground cumin adds depth; ground coriander can be a good stand-in.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is a simple way to enhance flavor. The key is to let it soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes; however, 2 hours is even better! Here’s how:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Coat the chicken evenly in the marinade.
- Cover and place in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- When ready to grill, shake off excess marinade to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
This step is essential for juicy, flavorful chicken, so don’t rush it! Your patience will definitely pay off.
How to Make Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating (2 hours is preferred for extra flavor). You’ll also need around 15 minutes to grill the chicken and let it rest. In total, you should budget about 1 hour for the entire process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are nicely charred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices in the chicken. Before serving, sprinkle the grilled chicken thighs with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken thighs will require a longer cooking time—about 10-12 minutes per side. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What is the Best Way to Marinate Chicken Thighs?
The longer you marinate, the better the flavor! Aim for at least 30 minutes, but marinating for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will give you the best taste. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 15-30 minutes before grilling to help it cook evenly.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to add the chicken when you’re ready to cook; the marinade won’t last with the chicken added for more than a day before it can become too acidic.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, covering with a lid. It’ll stay delicious!
