How Long Should I Grill Boneless Chicken Thighs? The Perfect Timing for Juicy Results Every Time

Are you staring at those boneless chicken thighs in your refrigerator wondering exactly how long they need on the grill? Trust me I’ve been there too! Getting the timing right is crucial – nobody wants dried-out chicken or, worse, undercooked poultry.

As someone who’s ruined more than my fair share of chicken (embarassing but true!), I’ve gathered all the essential info you need to nail those juicy, flavorful boneless chicken thighs on the grill every single time.

The Quick Answer: How Long to Grill Boneless Chicken Thighs

For those who just want the short version:

Boneless chicken thighs typically take about 6-8 minutes per side on medium-high heat (375°F to 450°F),

But there’s more to grilling perfect chicken thighs than just setting a timer! Let’s dive into all the details you need to make your grilled chicken thighs absolutely delicious.

Why Boneless Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for Grilling

Before we get into timing, lemme tell you why boneless chicken thighs are so great for the grill:

• Higher fat content than chicken breasts, which means more flavor and moisture
• More forgiving if slightly overcooked (unlike chicken breasts that dry out quickly)
• Cook faster than bone-in thighs, making them perfect for weeknight meals
• Absorb marinades wonderfully due to their texture and composition
• Versatile for various cuisines and flavor profiles

The Perfect Grill Temperature for Boneless Chicken Thighs

Getting your grill to the right temperature is super important! Here’s what the experts recommend:

• Medium to medium-high heat: Between 375°F and 450°F
• For gas grills: Set to around 400°F
• For charcoal grills: Create a medium-heat zone (you should be able to hold your hand about 5 inches above the grate for 4-5 seconds)

Pro tip: NEVER put chicken on a cold grill! Always preheat your grill properly for 10-15 minutes before cooking. I learned this the hard way when my chicken stuck terribly to my grill grates last summer!

Step-by-Step: How Long to Grill Boneless Chicken Thighs

Here’s my tried-and-true method:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F-450°F)
2. Place seasoned or marinated chicken thighs on the grill grates
3. Grill for 6-8 minutes on the first side with the lid closed
4. Flip once and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the second side
5. Check internal temperature – remove when chicken reaches 165°F
6. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving (this is crucial for juiciness!)

The total cooking time will be approximately 12-16 minutes, but remember – always use temperature, not time, as your primary doneness indicator!

How to Know When Your Chicken Thighs Are Done

The ONLY reliable way to know if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. Seriously, don’t guess – it’s not worth the risk!

• Target temperature: 165°F measured at the thickest part of the thigh
• Visual cues: Clear juices (not pink) when pierced, firm but not hard texture
• Slight resistance when pierced with a fork (but not rubbery)

I always carry my trusty instant-read thermometer whenever I’m grilling. It’s saved me from both undercooked and overcooked disasters countless times!

Marinades and Seasonings for Amazing Boneless Chicken Thighs

A good marinade can take your chicken thighs from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas from the experts:

Classic Herb Marinade

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 5 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, thyme, oregano)
• Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes
• Lemon zest and juice

Simple BBQ Marinade

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Spices: salt, pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, chili powder

Sweet and Savory Marinade

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/8 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Spices: salt, pepper, parsley

For best results, marinate your chicken thighs for 30 minutes to 8 hours in the refrigerator. I usually prep mine in the morning before work for dinner that night – the longer, the better (up to a point)!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Boneless Chicken Thighs

We’ve all made these errors – learn from my fails!

• Skipping the preheat: Always preheat your grill properly
• Checking too often: Every time you lift the lid, you lose heat
• Flipping more than once: Try to flip only one time for better sear
• Pressing down with tongs: This squeezes out all those delicious juices!
• Applying sugary sauces too early: Sugar burns quickly, so add BBQ sauce and other sweet glazes in the final few minutes
• Skipping the rest time: Those 5-10 minutes of resting are essential for juicy results

Tips for Extra Juicy Boneless Chicken Thighs

Want to take your grilled boneless chicken thighs to the next level? Try these pro tips:

1. Pound thighs to even thickness for more consistent cooking
2. Pat dry before seasoning for better sear and caramelization
3. Use two-zone grilling – sear over direct heat, then finish over indirect heat
4. Baste during the final minutes with reserved marinade (that hasn’t touched raw chicken)
5. Tent with foil during resting to keep warm and help connective tissues break down

Serving Ideas for Your Perfectly Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

Now that you’ve mastered grilling those chicken thighs, here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• Slice and add to fresh salads
• Serve with grilled vegetables and rice
• Use in tacos or quesadillas
• Add to pasta dishes
• Include in grain bowls with quinoa or farro
• Make chicken sandwiches with your favorite toppings

Storing and Reheating Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them tasty:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
• Reheat gently in a 300°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out
• Use cold in salads or sandwiches for quick lunches
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer bags with air removed

My Final Thoughts on Grilling Boneless Chicken Thighs

Grilling boneless chicken thighs doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right temperature (375°F-450°F), timing (6-8 minutes per side), and a good meat thermometer to check for that magic 165°F internal temp, you’ll have perfectly juicy results every time.

Remember that chicken thighs are forgiving – their higher fat content means they’re harder to dry out than chicken breasts. This makes them perfect for grilling beginners and experts alike.

So fire up that grill, grab your favorite marinade, and get cooking! Your perfectly grilled boneless chicken thighs are just 15 minutes away.

FAQ: Grilling Boneless Chicken Thighs

Q: Should I grill boneless chicken thighs with the lid open or closed?
A: Closed! This helps maintain consistent temperature and allows for more even cooking.

Q: Can I use frozen boneless chicken thighs on the grill?
A: It’s best to thaw completely first for even cooking and better marinade absorption.

Q: Do I need to oil the grill grates before adding chicken thighs?
A: Yes, lightly oiling the grates helps prevent sticking, especially if your marinade is low in oil.

Q: How long should I marinate boneless chicken thighs?
A: 30 minutes minimum, but 4-8 hours is ideal for maximum flavor. Overnight works great too!

Q: Is it better to grill boneless or bone-in chicken thighs?
A: Both are delicious! Boneless cook faster (6-8 mins per side) while bone-in take longer (10-15 mins) but some say have more flavor.

Q: Can I use the same marinade for basting that I used for marinating?
A: Only if you set some aside before adding raw chicken. Never reuse marinade that has touched raw poultry without boiling it first.

Now you’re all set to become the boneless chicken thigh grilling expert in your neighborhood! Happy grilling!