Grilling bone-in chicken thighs can seem intimidating for many backyard cooks With the right techniques and timing, though, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken thighs every time In this detailed guide, I’ll share tips on prep, grilling methods, ideal cook times, and how to tell when bone-in thighs are done. Let’s get grilling!
Why Choose Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are ideal for the grill. but opting for bone-in thighs offers some major advantages
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The bone adds moisture and flavor as the chicken cooks. Bone-in thighs are virtually foolproof against overcooking.
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The higher fat content compared to chicken breasts keeps the meat tender and juicy, even when exposed to direct grill heat
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The skin gets deliciously crispy, adding great texture.
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They’re budget-friendly and readily available.
For the best results, choose plump thighs with skin and clean them just before grilling. Organic and free-range thighs offer superior flavor.
Proper Prep Is Key
Taking the time to prep your chicken thighs before grilling makes all the difference. Here are some top tips:
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Soaking the chicken in a marinade adds great flavor and tenderness. Use an acidic ingredient like vinegar, citrus juice, or yogurt along with oil, spices, and herbs. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-12 hours.
Pat Dry Before Grilling
Pat the thighs dry before grilling to help achieve crispy skin. Excess moisture on the surface can make it soggy.
Oil the Grill Grates
Lightly brushing oil on the hot grill grates prevents sticking. Use tongs to rub a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil across the grates.
Allow Thighs to Come to Room Temp
Let refrigerated thighs sit out for 20-30 minutes before grilling. Room temperature chicken cooks more evenly.
Grilling Methods for Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Grilling over direct high heat the entire time risks drying out the meat. A two-zone fire is best to get that perfect combo of juicy interior and crispy skin.
Use Direct Then Indirect Heat
Start by searing the thighs skin-side down over direct heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Then move to indirect heat on the grill with the lid closed to finish cooking through.
Maintain Proper Temperature
Keep the grill temp between 350-400°F. Higher heat risks burning the outside before the inside cooks. Lower heat means you’ll miss out on that charred crispiness.
Close the Lid During Cooking
Closing the grill lid traps heat and moisture, leading to juicier meat. Open the vents to maintain proper airflow and temperature.
How Long Should You Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs?
The ideal cook time for bone-in thighs on the grill is 30-40 minutes at medium-high heat. Here is a more detailed grilling time breakdown:
- 5-7 minutes searing skin-side down over direct heat
- 23-33 minutes finishing over indirect heat with grill lid closed
Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. The safe minimum internal temperature for chicken is 165°F. Removing thighs at 160°F allows carryover cooking to 165°F as the chicken rests.
6 Ways to Tell When Chicken Thighs Are Done Grilling
It can be tricky to tell when bone-in thighs are fully cooked. Watch for these signs:
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The internal temperature reads 160-165°F on a meat thermometer
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Juices run clear when pierced with a knife
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The meat pulls back from the bone easily
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Skin is crisp and nicely browned
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Flesh feels firm when pressed with tongs
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No traces of pink in the thickest part of the meat
The thighs may need a few extra minutes if the grill runs cooler. For food safety, confirm doneness with a thermometer.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs
With the right techniques, you can master grilled chicken thigh perfection:
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Use a flavorful marinade or dry rub
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Grill over a two-zone fire for crispy skin and moist meat
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Maintain a consistent grill temperature of 350-400°F
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Cook until thermometer reaches 160-165°F internally
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Allow thighs to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
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Pair with grilled veggies, salads, baked potatoes, and other classic sides
Satisfying and Simple Grilled Chicken Thighs
Grilling bone-in chicken thighs requires far less time and effort compared to grilling whole chickens or other cuts like breasts. With the ideal prep, grilling methods, and cook times outlined above, you can look forward to incredibly tasty, juicy chicken off the grill. Get creative with marinades and spice rubs, and enjoy this simple protein all summer long!
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Published February 01, 2024
Reviewed by GIR: Get It Right
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Prep Time
10 minutes
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Cook Time
12-16 minutes
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Total Time
22-26 minutes
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Yield
4 servings
Grilling has become a beloved pastime for many, and chicken thighs are often a top choice when it comes to perfecting the art of grilling.
Let’s explore the ins and outs of grilling chicken thighs to help you always achieve mouthwatering results. Knowing how long to grill chicken thighs is essential for a successful grilling experience and ensuring your dish is flavorful and cooked safely.
So, lets get into everything you need to know about chicken thighs and uncover the tricks to grilling them to perfection.
How To Elevate Your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Tasty Variations
If you want to add an extra flavor to your grilled chicken thighs, experimenting with different seasoning blends and marinade flavors can take your dish to new heights.
Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Lemon Herb: Combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with a drizzle of olive oil to create a zesty and aromatic marinade.
- Teriyaki Glaze: For an Asian-inspired twist, mix soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil to create a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.
- Spicy Cajun: Create a bold and fiery flavor by blending paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to make a spicy Cajun seasoning.
- Mediterranean Delight: Combine minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, lemon zest, olive oil, and a touch of white wine vinegar for a Mediterranean-inspired marinade that infuses the chicken thighs with a burst of freshness.
- Honey Mustard: Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to create a sticky and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Feel free to mix and match these flavor profiles, adjust the quantities of ingredients to suit your taste preferences, and create your very own signature seasoning blends and marinades.
Grilling chicken thighs can result in juicy and flavorful dishes. By understanding how long to grill chicken thighs, you can achieve mouthwatering outcomes that will impress your family and friends.
Enjoy the grilling process, experiment with flavors, and let the aroma of grilled chicken thighs transform your outdoor gatherings.
Looking for more tasty recipes? We’ve got you covered — check out our blog.
Sources:
How To Grill Bone In Chicken Thighs
FAQ
How long do bone-in chicken thighs take to grill?
How long do you cook 2 chicken thighs for?
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place chicken thighs in a baking dish; season both sides with garlic powder and onion flakes. Bake in the preheated oven until no longer pink at the bone and juices run clear, about 30 minutes.
Is it better to grill chicken at 350 or 400?
How long to grill bone-in chicken at 400 degrees?
- Thighs (Bone-In) Time: 30 to 40 minutes.
- Temperature: Medium-high (400˚F) for direct heat, medium-low (300˚F) for indirect heat.
- Best technique: Sear chicken skin side down over direct heat until golden brown, about three minutes.
How long should a bone-in chicken thigh be grilled?
When it comes to grilling bone-in chicken thigh, one of the most important things to consider is the cooking time. On average, bone-in chicken thighs should be grilled for about 25-30 minutes over medium heat.
How long does it take to grill chicken thighs?
Grilled chicken thighs are an easy, flavorful dinner option that cooks quickly on a gas or charcoal grill. With tips on grilling time, temperature, technique, and seasoning, this recipe offers juicy, tender chicken with minimal preparation in under 30 minutes, whether using boneless or bone-in thighs.
How long do you Grill bone in thighs?
Grill for 5-6 minutes with the skin up, then flip to skin down and grill for about 4 minutes. Flip and continue the uneven grilling times. 5. Grill to 185° internal temperature—about 25-30 minutes for bone-in thighs. 6. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. For more details, keep reading.
How long to cook boneless chicken thighs?
They’re considered done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees, but can go up to 180-185 and still remain tender and juicy. Quick cooking: boneless chicken thighs cook quickly on the grill – just 3-5 minutes per side. Flavorful: chicken thighs are considered dark meat and contain more fat than chicken breasts.
Can You Grill boneless skinless chicken thighs?
This grilling recipe – or method, really – is for boneless skinless chicken thighs, which can be grilled directly over medium-high heat on either a charcoal or gas grill. To grill bone-in chicken thighs we’d need to create two heat zones on the grill (like for my Grilled Pork Tenderloin).
What temperature should chicken thighs be grilled at?
Medium heat, around 375°F, provides the best balance for grilling bone-in chicken thighs, ensuring they cook through without burning. 11. Should I oil the grill before adding the chicken thighs?