how long does it take to grill bone in chicken thighs on the grill

How Long Does it Take to Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs for Perfectly Cooked Results

Grilling juicy, flavorful bone-in chicken thighs may seem daunting for many backyard grill masters. With the right technique, timing, and temperature control, you can achieve tender, mouthwatering results every time. In this article, I’ll walk through the complete process for grilling bone-in thighs, from preparation to grill times to doneness cues.

Chicken thighs have a few advantages over leaner breast meat when it comes to grilling. The higher fat content keeps them moist and tasty while the bone helps conduct heat evenly. The skin also becomes deliciously crispy. However the thickness of the meat and variance in size means bone-in thighs can quickly go from underdone to dried out. Monitoring temperature and cook times is key.

On average bone-in chicken thighs take 30-40 minutes to grill over medium heat, flipping halfway through. But several factors impact the time including thickness, bone size, grill type, and weather conditions. Understanding how these elements affect cook times allows you to adapt for perfect results.

Preparing Chicken Thighs for Grilling
Proper preparation sets you up for the best, most consistent results when grilling bone-in chicken thighs. Here are some key steps:

• Choose quality chicken with visible fat. Opt for skin-on for added flavor and moisture.

• Trim excess fat or skin to even out thickness. Uniform pieces will cook evenly.

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or 2-4 hours ideally. Marinades boost juiciness.

• Pat dry before grilling. Excess moisture on the surface can inhibit browning.

• Generously season with spices, herbs, salt, and pepper. A flavorful crust develops.

• Allow thighs to come to room temp before grilling for more even cooking.

Taking the time to prep properly makes a noticeable difference in the end result.

How Long Does it Take to Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs?
Once your grill is preheated to the ideal temperature (see below), use these cook times as a starting point for getting perfect bone-in thighs off the barbecue:

• 30-40 minutes over medium heat (350°F – 400°F)
• Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking
• Check temperature with a meat thermometer for doneness

The 30-40 minute range accounts for differences in thickness and bone size. Thicker cuts and meatier thighs need extra time. Use a thermometer to confirm doneness rather than going solely by time.

Factors Impacting Grill Times
Several elements can lengthen or shorten the cook time for bone-in chicken thighs. Being aware of these allows you to modify accordingly:

• Thickness – Thicker thighs take longer to cook through. Monitor closely.

• Bone size – Larger thigh bones absorb more heat, increasing cook time.

• Grill type – Charcoal grills are less consistent in temperature than gas.

• Weather conditions – Wind and cold affect grill temperature and cook times.

• Marinade/brine – Wet surfaces mean slightly longer cook times.

• Flare-ups – Excess fat can cause flames, potentially burning the skin.

• Grill position – Distance from heat source impacts cook time.

Paying attention to these factors ensures you allow enough time for bone-in thighs to cook through without drying out.

Determining Doneness for Chicken Thighs
With bone-in cuts, you can’t rely solely on checking color to determine doneness. Use these methods for accurately assessing when they’re ready:

• Temperature – Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part, away from the bone. 165°F indicates complete doneness.

• Juices – Pierce with a fork and check juices run clear with no pink color.

• Texture – Fully cooked meat feels firm when pressed. Undercooked still feels soft.

• Appearance – The meat pulls away from the bone slightly when properly cooked.

For safety and ideal texture, don’t depend on just one doneness indicator. Verify with multiple signs of completion.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Achieving tender, juicy results when grilling bone-in thighs requires a few special techniques:

• Grill over indirect heat first to help retain moisture before finishing directly over the flames.

• Baste during grilling and rest after cooking to boost juiciness.

• Allow thighs to rest at least 5 minutes before serving so juices redistribute evenly.

• Cook skin-side down first for crispy skin that seals in moisture.

• Use a marinade with acid ingredients to help tenderize and prevent dry meat.

• Apply a flavorful dry rub if marinating isn’t your preference.

With the right prep, cook times, and techniques, you can master grilling succulent, delicious bone-in chicken thighs worthy of any barbecue spread. Get ready for your family and friends to request them again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Bone-In Chicken Thighs

1. Why are bone-in chicken thighs good for grilling?

Bone-in thighs have more fat and connective tissue than chicken breasts, keeping them juicy on the grill. The bone also conducts heat for even cooking.

1. How long should I marinate bone-in chicken thighs?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes but ideally 2-4 hours. Too long can make the meat mushy.

1. What temperature should I grill bone-in thighs?

Aim for medium heat, around 375°F, to get a sear while cooking through without drying out.

1. How do I know when bone-in thighs are done grilling?

Check for an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer. Juices will run clear when pierced.

1. Should I grill bone-in thighs skin-side down first?

Yes, starting skin-side down helps render fat for moisture and gets the skin crispy. Flip once browned.

1. Can I use a dry rub instead of marinating?

Yes, a flavorful dry rub works well too. It just doesn’t penetrate or tenderize as much.

1. How long do grilled bone-in thighs last?

Properly stored in the fridge, grilled thighs keep for 3-4 days. They can be frozen for up to 4 months.

Perfectly cooked bone-in chicken thighs right off the grill are hard to beat in summer. With the right prep and techniques, you can achieve ideal results full of flavor and moisture every time. Grilling thighs requires a little more attention than chicken breasts, but it’s worth the effort.