This recipe for grilled boneless chicken thighs is super simple and packed with flavor! With just a few herbs and spices, you’ll have juicy, tender chicken ready in no time.
You know what’s great? These thighs are hard to mess up! I usually whip them up for BBQs or quick dinners, and they disappear fast. Pair them with your favorite veggies for a complete meal! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster on the grill.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with marination. You can substitute with another cooking oil like avocado oil or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Soy Sauce: It provides umami and depth. For a soy-free version, use coconut aminos or a homemade alternative with broth and spices!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch; about 1 teaspoon should suffice.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is the best for brightness. Bottled lemon juice can be used too, but fresh is always a personal favorite.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Grilling?
Marinating is the key to flavor! Here’s how I do it to ensure the chicken becomes tender and tasty:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well to combine flavors; the acid in lemon juice helps to tenderize the meat.
- Popping the chicken into a resealable bag allows the marinade to cling better and penetrate fully.
- Letting it marinate for 2-4 hours, or even overnight, really enhances the flavor.
- When it’s time to grill, don’t rush! Preheat your grill for even cooking, and let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
Easy Best Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a slight caramelized glaze)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken thigh recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes of marinating time. For the best flavor, aim for 2-4 hours of marinating, and grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, you can be enjoying your meal in about 1 hour if you marinate for 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, brown sugar (if using), smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This creates a tasty marinade that will flavor your chicken while keeping it juicy.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the boneless chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, aim for 2-4 hours!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Before adding the chicken, lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and they have that nice char and caramelization. Be careful not to move the chicken around too much to get those beautiful grill marks!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken thighs to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes to help retain their juices. After resting, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy these tender, flavorful grilled boneless chicken thighs—they’re perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Best Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken thighs typically take longer to cook, so you’ll want to grill them for about 10-12 minutes on each side or until they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, you can use coconut aminos or a homemade mix of broth, vinegar, and a bit of salt. This keeps the umami flavor while eliminating gluten and soy!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate chicken thighs for anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours. However, marinating for 2-4 hours usually yields the best results in flavor and tenderness without compromising the meat.
Can Leftovers Be Stored and Reheated?
Absolutely! Store leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist!
