How Long Does It Take to Cook Bone-In Chicken Thighs on the Grill?

Grilling juicy, flavorful bone-in chicken thighs can seem intimidating for backyard grill masters With the right technique, timing, and temperature monitoring, you’ll have tender, mouthwatering chicken thighs off the grill in no time. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to grill bone-in chicken thighs to perfection

Why Choose Bone-In Chicken Thighs for Grilling

Chicken thighs are a top choice for the grill, thanks to their naturally rich flavor and juiciness. Opting for bone-in chicken thighs offers some key advantages:

• More flavorful – The bone imparts extra flavor and moisture into the meat during cooking. This gives you the most succulent, savory chicken possible.

• Added insulation – The bone helps insulate the meat slowing cooking and keeping the inside tender while allowing the outside to get crispy.

• Easy to handle – Unlike floppy boneless thighs, bone-in thighs hold their shape on the grill grates for simpler flipping.

• Economical – Bone-in chicken thighs are often more budget-friendly than boneless cuts.

With a little knowledge, bone-in chicken thighs deliver incredible results on the grill every time.

Step 1: Pat Chicken Thighs Dry

Before grilling, be sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps promote browning and prevents the meat from steaming. Removing excess moisture allows the chicken skin to get crispy.

Step 2: Season Generously

For the best flavor, generously coat both sides of the thighs with seasoning. Try a simple blend of salt, pepper and garlic powder or get creative with spices like smoked paprika, chili powder or cumin. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.

Step 3: Grill on Medium-High Heat

Aim to grill the thighs over direct medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This gives you the right balance between nicely seared outsides and fully cooked insides without overcharring the exterior.

Use a grill thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature. If grilling over charcoal, let the coals ash over before placing the thighs on the grate.

Step 4: Grill Skin Side Down First

Place the thighs skin side down and grill for 5-6 minutes before flipping. Letting the skin side sear helps render fat and achieve that crispy skin we love. Don’t move the thighs too soon or the skin may tear.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking

After searing the skin side, flip the thighs and grill for another 15-20 minutes on the meatier side. Flipping halfway through ensures even browning and cooking.

Rotate or move the thighs as needed to prevent burning. Tent with foil if they brown too quickly.

Step 6: Check Temperature

The best way to ensure your chicken thighs are fully cooked is to use an instant read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a thigh, avoiding the bone.

The thighs are finished cooking when the thermometer reads 165°F. If under, grill a few more minutes until up to temperature.

Step 7: Let Chicken Rest

Once cooked through, transfer the chicken thighs to a platter and tent with foil. Letting the thighs rest 5-10 minutes allows juices to reabsorb for incredibly moist, tender meat.

After resting, the chicken is ready to serve! Enjoy it on its own, sliced in a salad, tucked in a sandwich or however you prefer.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Results

• Allow 20-25 minutes total cooking time for average sized bone-in thighs. Larger pieces may need slightly longer.

• Use tongs and grill-safe oven mitts for easy, protected handling at the grill.

• Apply a light coating of oil to the grill grates to prevent sticking.

• Add hardwood chips or chunks to infuse extra smoky flavor.

• Work over direct heat for sear marks and indirect for gentler cooking if needed.

• Brush on a sweet-savory glaze the last 5 minutes for glistening, caramelized results.

• Resist the urge to move or flip the thighs too early so searing can happen.

With the right prep, seasoning and monitoring, you can masterfully grill juicy, flavor-packed bone-in chicken thighs. Rely on a thermometer for doneness and allow the meat to rest. In about 25 minutes, you’ll have simply amazing chicken ready to enjoy.

Bone-in chicken thighs typically take 30-45 minutes to grill, depending on the heat of the grill and the size of the thighs.

For grilling chicken, it’s generally better to use a medium-high heat, which translates to a temperature range of 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). This range allows for a good sear on the outside while ensuring the chicken cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).