Chicken thighs are a barbecue staple thanks to their rich flavor and forgiving texture However, nailing the right grilling time is key to achieving tender, juicy results Undercooking leaves you with tough, chewy meat while overcooking dries out the thighs and ruins the taste.
So how long should you grill chicken thighs? The ideal cooking time depends on a few factors:
Bone-in vs Boneless Thighs
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Bone-in thighs take longer to grill since the bone acts as an insulator, slowing the cooking process. Allow 8-10 minutes per side for bone-in thighs.
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Boneless thighs cook faster without the bone. They take approximately 6-8 minutes per side.
Thickness
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Thicker thighs require more time on the grill. An extra 1/2 inch can add 3-4 minutes to the total cooking time.
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Take thickness into account and adjust cooking times accordingly. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness.
Grill Temperature
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Grill temperature impacts cooking time A hot grill around 400°F cooks faster than a lower 300°F temp
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For ideal results, maintain a steady grill temperature between 375-450°F.
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If grilling indirectly, expect the times to increase by 5-10 minutes.
Marinating
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Marinating chicken thighs adds flavor but can also affect cooking time.
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Acidic marinades may start to “cook” the meat, reducing the time needed on the grill.
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Sugary marinades caramelize and char faster, so watch closely to avoid burning.
Checking Doneness
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Always use an instant-read thermometer to test for doneness, regardless of cooking time.
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Chicken thighs are safe to eat at 165°F but for ideal texture, cook to 185°F.
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Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a thigh, avoiding bone.
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Check temperature early and often to avoid overcooking.
Uneven Grilling Method
For skin-on bone-in thighs, utilize an uneven grilling technique to prevent burnt skin:
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Start with skin-side up for 5-6 minutes.
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Flip and grill skin-side down for 3-4 minutes.
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Keep flipping and rotating every few minutes.
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Skin faces up more than down overall.
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Move thighs around the grill grates to cook evenly and avoid flare-ups.
Resting
Always allow chicken thighs to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period enables juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a juicy bite. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
Grilling Tips for Juicy, Tender Chicken Thighs
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Trim excess fat to minimize flare-ups that can char the thighs.
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Use a marinade for added moisture – try yogurt, buttermilk or citrus juices.
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Brine the thighs before grilling to boost flavor and retain juiciness.
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Grill indirectly on a 2-zone fire if struggling with burning.
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Apply a light coating of oil to help retain moisture during grilling.
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Use a meat thermometer and cook to 185°F for ideal doneness.
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Allow thighs to rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
Estimated Grill Times for Chicken Thighs
Bone-in chicken thighs
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8-10 minutes per side
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25-30 minutes total
Boneless chicken thighs
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6-8 minutes per side
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15-20 minutes total
Chicken thighs (indirect heat)
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10-12 minutes per side
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30-40 minutes total
Marinated chicken thighs
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6-10 minutes per side
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20-25 minutes total
Chicken thighs (over 375°F grill)
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6-8 minutes per side
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20-25 minutes total
Chicken thighs (over 450°F grill)
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4-6 minutes per side
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15-20 minutes total
The cooking time can vary based on many factors, so use these grilling times as a guide. Rely on an instant-read thermometer to determine when your chicken thighs are perfectly cooked.Aim for 185°F for the ideal balance of safety and juiciness.
With the right technique, chicken thighs can deliver incredible depth of flavor. A few simple tips will have you serving up tender, succulent barbecue in no time. Trust in your thermometer, grill with care, and enjoy the results!
How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs
Let’s get into the specifics of how long to grill chicken thighs, whether they have bones or are boneless.
When grilling chicken thighs with the bone, its important to ensure thorough cooking while maintaining juiciness. Heres a guideline for how long to grill chicken thighs with bones:
- Safe Cooking Temperature: The internal temperature of grilled chicken thighs should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. This temperature kills potential bacteria and ensures the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
- Cooking Time Estimation: On average, bone-in chicken thighs take about six to eight minutes per side to cook on the grill. However, cooking time may vary depending on the thighs thickness and the grills heat. Its important to gauge the cooking time accurately to avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.
- Monitoring the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs reach a safe internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding contact with the bone. Once it reads 165°F (74°C), your chicken thighs are ready to be removed from the grill.
Grilling boneless chicken thighs allows for faster and more convenient cooking. Heres a guideline for how long to grill boneless chicken thighs:
- Recommended Internal Temperature: Just like bone-in thighs, boneless chicken thighs also need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature monitoring.
- Reduced Cooking Time: Since boneless chicken thighs lack the bones insulating effect, they require less time on the grill. On average, boneless chicken thighs take approximately four to six minutes per side to cook thoroughly. However, adjust the cooking time based on the thighs thickness and your grills heat intensity.
- Using a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee accurate doneness, measure the internal temperature of the boneless chicken thighs using a meat thermometer. As soon as the thermometer registers 165°F (74°C), your boneless thighs are ready to be taken off the grill, delivering succulent and safe-to-eat results.
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:
Beginners Guide to Grilling Chicken Thighs
FAQ
How long to cook chicken on a 400 grill?
Is it better to grill chicken at 350 or 400?
Should I flip chicken thighs on the grill?
Do you flip chicken thighs when grilling? Yes! For even cooking, flip the chicken thighs. Get a good crust formed for about 5 minutes on each side, then continue to cover and cook, flipping every 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. How long do you grill chicken thighs?
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.
What temperature should grilled chicken thighs be?
A grill temperature between 350°F to 450°F is ideal for grilling chicken thighs. This range allows for even cooking and a nice sear, enhancing the flavor and texture of the meat. How can I keep grilled chicken thighs juicy?
How do you cook boneless chicken thighs on a grill?
When you’re ready to throw your boneless, skinless chicken thighs on the grill, follow these steps for success: Heat the grill until it’s “hot enough that you can’t hold your hand 4 inches above it for more than five seconds,” says Matijevich. Cook the thighs over direct heat, flipping once during cooking.
How long does it take to cook chicken thighs?
You’re not alone. Many home cooks face the challenge of timing, wanting juicy, flavorful meat without the risk of undercooking or overcooking. Grilling Times: Boneless chicken thighs take 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in thighs require 8-10 minutes per side, all aimed at reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long do you cook chicken on a grill?
Preheat your grill at medium high heat (around 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit). Sear the chicken, skin-side down, for around 4-5 minutes to get that CRISPY and GOLDEN BROWN skin. Flip it over and close the lid of the grill. Leave it to cook for 10 more minutes (or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit).
How long do you marinate chicken thighs after grilling?
Marinate: Marinating chicken thighs enhances flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best results. Resting: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This step allows juices to redistribute, preventing dryness. Meat Thermometer: A reliable thermometer offers an accurate internal temperature reading.