Juicy grilled chicken thighs are a simple and tasty meal perfect for any day. Marinated in herbs and spices, they get a nice char on the grill, making them extra flavorful!
I love how these thighs stay moist and tender! Pair them with a fresh salad or your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal everyone will enjoy. Plus, they cook up quickly—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can work, though they’ll be less juicy.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute, as it also has a high smoke point.
Soy Sauce: It brings umami to the dish. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari as a substitute. Coconut aminos is another tasty alternative, offering a slightly sweeter taste.
Honey: This provides sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken on the grill. Maple syrup can be used as a vegan substitute if you’re avoiding honey.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, using 1/8 tsp for each clove.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavored Perfectly?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring moistness. Aim to marinate for at least one hour, but overnight is best! This allow the spices and acids to properly penetrate the meat.
- Mix the marinade well to combine flavors before adding the chicken.
- Remember to let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling; this helps it cook evenly.
While grilling, keep an eye on the temperature. Using a meat thermometer is the easiest way to ensure you hit that perfect 165°F (75°C) without drying out the meat. After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes; this helps keep it juicy by redistributing the juices.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time plus at least 1 hour for marinating. Cooking the chicken on the grill takes about 25-30 minutes. So, in total, allow for about 1 hour and 40 minutes if you marinate for one hour, or about 12-24 hours if you opt for overnight marination for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This flavorful mixture will make your chicken extra juicy and tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and pop it in the refrigerator to marinate. Allow it to sit for at least 1 hour—if you have time, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for direct cooking. This will ensure a nice sear on your chicken thighs.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until you see nice grill marks. Then, flip the thighs over, reduce the heat to medium, and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring they’re safe to eat!
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken flavorful and juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and add lemon wedges for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just note that they will cook faster, so reduce the grilling time to about 4-6 minutes on each side. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
If you need a substitute for soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free alternative, or coconut aminos for a soy-free option. Both will impart a similar umami flavor to your marinade!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more enhanced flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed that time, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the meat too much and affect the texture.
