How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken Thighs on a Propane Grill? The Complete Guide

Chicken thighs are a favorite for grilling. Their rich flavor and juiciness make them ideal for cooking over the high, dry heat of a propane grill. However, to get perfect results every time you need to understand how long they take to cook.

This complete guide covers everything you need to know about grilling times for boneless and bone-in chicken thighs. You’ll learn how to set up your grill, what temperature to aim for, how to prevent sticking and flare-ups, and how to test for doneness. Follow these tips and techniques for moist, tender chicken thighs with crispy skin every time.

Why Choose Chicken Thighs for Grilling?

Compared to lean chicken breasts, chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist during grilling. The high temperatures can quickly dry out lean cuts, but the fat in thighs bastes the meat from within. Other advantages of thighs include:

• More flavor – Chicken thighs are dark meat, which has a richer taste compared to white breast meat. The fat also carries flavor.

• Juicier – The fat and connective tissue prevent thighs from drying out They stay moist when cooked to higher safe temperatures

• Forgiving – With more fat and collagen thighs are harder to overcook. You have a wider window of doneness between moist and dry.

• Economical – Chicken thighs are often cheaper per pound than breast meat. You get great value for money.

Setting Up Your Propane Grill

Proper setup is key for even grilling and preventing flare-ups. Here are the steps:

• Clean – Scrub the grates well with a grill brush to remove residue. This prevents sticking.

• Oil – Use cooking oil or grill spray to lightly coat the clean grates. Oil helps release food and minimizes sticking.

• Preheat – Turn all burners to high. Close the lid and preheat for 10-15 minutes until the grill reaches 500-600°F. You want a hot cooking surface to sear the thighs initially.

• Leave space – Don’t overcrowd. Leave at least 1-inch between thighs for proper airflow and even cooking.

How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken Thighs?

Grilling times can vary based on the thickness of the thighs and whether they are boneless or bone-in.

• Boneless thighs – Grill for 8-12 minutes total, flipping halfway. They’ll reach safe temperature faster due to their thinner size.

• Bone-in thighs – Grill for 18-25 minutes, flipping every 5-6 minutes. The bone conducts heat slower, so they take longer.

For accuracy, use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature rather than relying on time alone. Cook thighs to 165°F minimum for food safety. For juicy, tender meat, target 185°F. The collagen breaks down more at this temperature.

Grilling Boneless vs. Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Both boneless and bone-in thighs work great on the grill. Follow these tips for each:

Boneless:

• Grill 8-10 minutes per side
• Brush with oil first to prevent sticking/drying
• Flip often to prevent burning

Bone-in:

• Grill 18-22 minutes total
• Flip every 5-6 minutes
• Move around grill to prevent flare-ups
• Use tongs to flip, not a fork

The bone makes bone-in thighs take longer. But it also adds flavor, keeps them juicy, and allows for easier handling. Boneless thighs cook faster but require more attention to prevent drying out.

Preventing Sticking and Flare-Ups

To avoid thighs sticking to the grill:

• Apply a light coat of oil to the grates and thighs before grilling
• Allow thighs to release naturally before flipping – don’t forcefully move them too soon
• Use tongs vs. a fork for turning – piercing causes juices to be lost

For flare-ups from drippings, use these methods:

• Trim excess fat and skin
• Leave space between thighs
• Move thighs around the grill as needed
• Cook over indirect heat if flare-ups are excessive

Flare-ups result from fat/juices hitting the flames. Proper preparation and monitoring helps prevent issues.

How to Tell When Chicken Thighs Are Done

The best way to test doneness is by temperature. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh without touching bone.

• 165°F is the safe minimum temperature
• For ideal texture and moisture, cook to 185°F

Signs of done thighs without a thermometer:

• Meat has opaque, white color throughout
• Juices run clear when pierced
• Skin is crispy and browned (if skin-on)

Allow thighs to rest 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will rise another 5-10 degrees as they sit.

Grilling Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Thighs

Follow these tips for flawless grilled chicken thighs every time:

• Trim excess fat/skin – Helps prevent sticking and flare-ups
• Use a thermometer – Ensures accurate, safe doneness
• Preheat thoroughly – Allows for quick searing to lock in juices
• Brush with oil – Prevents sticking and keeps meat moist
• Flip frequently – Promotes even cooking
• Let rest 5 minutes – Allows juices to redistribute for a juicy result

Properly grilling chicken thighs takes some technique, but the flavor payoff is worth it. With the right prep and monitoring, you can achieve tender, juicy meat with crispy skin off your propane grill.

Serving Ideas for Grilled Chicken Thighs

The rich flavor of grilled thighs pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Fresh green salad or coleslaw
• Grilled veggies like zucchini, peppers, or corn
• Baked potatoes, rice, or pasta salad
• Grilled bread for chicken sandwiches

You can also glaze or sauce thighs once they’re cooked. Try barbecue sauce, teriyaki, jerk seasoning, or your favorite marinade as a finishing sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs

Leftover grilled chicken thighs keep well for 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container. The meat also freezes well for 3-4 months.

To reheat, use one of these methods:

• Oven – Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through

• Skillet – Heat thighs over medium-low, adding a bit of water or broth to rehydrate

• Microwave – Microwave individual portions for 60-90 seconds, checking periodically

Avoid overheating, which can dry out the thighs. Reheat only to 165°F or until hot and steaming.

Get Grilling for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Thighs!

Now you have all the tools to grill moist, flavorful chicken thighs on your propane grill every time. With the right setup, monitoring, and temperature, you can achieve ideally tender and juicy results. Crispy skin, smokehouse flavors, and easy cleanup are also benefits of grill-cooking.

Try mixing up the seasoning or sauces to complement the signature richness of chicken thighs. Whether as part of a summer cookout or a quick weeknight meal, these tips will take your grilled thighs to the next level. Fire up the propane and enjoy backyard cooking at its finest!

Grilling chicken thighs on a propane grill generally takes between 12 and 25 minutes, depending on whether they are boneless or bone-in, and whether the skin is on or off.

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).