What Temperature to Grill Chicken Thighs on a Gas Grill for Juicy, Flavorful Results

Chicken thighs are a favorite protein to cook on the grill. Their rich meaty flavor takes beautifully to the smoky char of the grill grates. While chicken breasts can easily dry out on the grill, thighs have more fat and connective tissue. This keeps them tender and moist even with high heat cooking.

But to get the best results on your gas grill, what temperature should you use? Follow proper grilling techniques, and you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken thighs every time.

Understanding Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs contain more fat and collagen compared to white meat cuts like breasts. This makes them well suited for grilling. The extra fat keeps them from drying out over direct heat. Collagen melts into gelatin during cooking, leaving the meat succulent.

You’ll find two main types of chicken thighs:

• Bone-in thighs have the bone still attached. This adds flavor from the marrow and helps keep the meat juicy. Go for bone-in when you want the best texture and taste.

• Boneless thighs are easier to work with. They cook faster since the bone doesn’t act as an insulator. Boneless thighs make a good weeknight option when you want quicker cooking.

Prepping Chicken Thighs for the Grill

Proper prep ensures your chicken thighs cook evenly and absorb plenty of flavor.

• Trim excess fat and skin: This minimizes flare-ups from drippings on the grill. Leave just enough for flavor and moisture.

• Marinate for 2-4 hours: Soaking thighs in an acidic marinade tenderizes the meat. Try mixes with olive oil, yogurt, citrus, and herbs.

• Pat dry before grilling: Remove excess marinade moisture to help get a sear. This creates browned bits that equal flavor.

• Lightly oil before seasoning: Brush with oil to help the seasoning adhere. Canola, vegetable, or olive oil all work well.

• Season generously: Use salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or spice blends. Apply seasoning right before grilling for maximum impact.

Determining the Best Grill Temperature for Chicken Thighs

The ideal temperature for grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill falls between:

• 375-450°F (190-230°C)

This range gives you leeway based on factors like thigh size, bone-in vs. boneless, and desired char.

Shoot for 400°F (200°C) for the best balance of cooking time and thorough browning. At this temp, thighs take 15-25 minutes depending on thickness. Bone-in thighs need more time than boneless.

Higher heat above 450°F (230°C) can quickly overcook and dry out the exterior before the inside finishes.

Lower heat under 375°F (190°C) may not properly render the fat and collagen. This leaves you with tough, rubbery meat.

Maintaining the grill temp between 375-450°F (190-230°C) ensures juicy, tender chicken thighs with nice charring on the outside.

Monitoring Doneness of Chicken Thighs

With the grill at the right temp, monitor doneness carefully to prevent over or undercooking:

• Use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness, especially with thick, bone-in thighs. Insert into the thickest part without touching bone.

  • For bone-in thighs, cook to 175°F (80°C).

  • For boneless thighs, cook to 165°F (74°C).

• Watch for visual cues like juices running clear and meat pulling back from bones.

• Judge firmness by poking thighs with tongs or a fork. They should feel springy but not mushy.

Pull the thighs as soon as they reach the target temp. Carryover cooking will boost the temp about 5-10 degrees after removing from the grill.

Serving Your Grilled Chicken Thighs

After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute so each bite bursts with moisture.

Then, serve your succulent grilled thighs with flavorful sauces and sides:

• BBQ sauce for a classic flavor combo—try regional styles like Kansas City or Carolina

• Chimichurri to cut through the richness—the brightness pairs perfectly

• Honey mustard for sweet, tangy flavor

• Coleslaw offers crunch and acidity to balance the grill char

• Potato salad is a popular pairing that soaks up the tasty juices

• Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn for extra smoky flavor

With the right grilling technique, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken thighs all summer long. Experiment with marinades and spice rubs so you never get bored.

Just maintain your gas grill at that ideal 375-450°F (190-230°C) temp range for foolproof results. Now get outside and fire up the grill—endless tasty meals await!

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I grill bone-in chicken thighs?

For bone-in chicken thighs, grill at 375-450°F (190-230°C) and cook to an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C). The bone conducts less heat than the meat, so bone-in thighs need higher heat and temperature.

Can I grill chicken thighs on high heat?

Yes, you can grill thighs on high heat above 450°F (230°C) to get a good char quickly. But watch closely to avoid burning. Cut down the cook time by flipping frequently and moving to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking if needed.

Should I brine chicken thighs before grilling?

Brining is an excellent way to keep chicken thighs extra juicy on the grill. Soak them for 30-60 minutes in a saltwater brine before marinating and grilling. The salt solution helps them hold on to moisture.

What if my gas grill won’t reach the ideal temperature?

If your grill struggles to hit higher temps, extend the cook time to allow the thighs to finish cooking through. Also try searing first over direct heat, then moving to indirect heat to avoid burning. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to hold in heat.

How do I get crispy chicken thigh skin on the grill?

Crispy skin requires high, direct heat. Grill over 400°F+ (200°C+) heat with the skin side down first. Flip frequently to prevent burning. Brush on a very light coat of oil before grilling to help conduct heat into the skin.