These marinated grilled chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! With a mix of herbs and spices, they become a tasty treat for any meal. Plus, grilling gives them a nice smoky touch.
Just wait until the smell fills your kitchen! I love serving these with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. They’re so good, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for healthier options, skinless chicken breasts can work, but they’ll be less juicy. Bone-in thighs are also great if you don’t mind the bone and cooking time might slightly increase.
Olive Oil: A good choice for marinating; however, you can swap it with avocado oil or even canola oil. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly with these oils.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth to the marinade. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. If you’re looking to cut down on sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is the way to go.
Honey: Provides sweetness. You can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if honey isn’t suitable for you.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity to balance flavors. Lemon juice is a nice alternative if you prefer something fresher.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a handy substitute, though I find fresh garlic brings the best flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling chicken thighs can be tricky if you want them juicy! Here are some tips to help you out:
- Marinate Well: The longer you marinate (up to 24 hours), the more flavor your chicken will absorb. Try to marinate overnight for the best results.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure the grill is preheated to around 400°F. This helps achieve a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.
- Cook Time: Grill each side for 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest Time: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. This lets the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
The Best Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating—overnight is best! Cooking on the grill will take another 15-20 minutes. In total, you might spend 1 hour and 40 minutes to have perfectly marinated grilled chicken thighs ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely mixed. This sauce will give your chicken amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure every piece is well-coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a zip-top bag, then place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can wait overnight, the chicken will be even tastier!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F. This will help to sear the chicken and give it a nice char.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. You can toss the leftover marinade—it’s best not to use it after marinating the chicken. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Look for a nice char and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Now it’s time to serve! Garnish your grilled thighs with some chopped fresh parsley and enjoy them with your favorite sides, like rice or a fresh salad. Happy grilling!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in thighs, you can use them in this recipe. Just note that they will take a bit longer to cook—about 10-12 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F for safety.
What Should I Do if I’m Short on Time?
No problem! If you’re pressed for time, you can marinate the chicken for just 30 minutes instead of 1 hour. While it won’t be as flavorful, it will still be tasty. Additionally, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat if you can’t use a grill.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Adjust the Marinade for Dietary Restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, switch to tamari sauce. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative!
