Savory Homemade Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe to Impress

The aroma of grilled chicken thighs wafts through the air, promising a delightful meal that excites your taste buds. Picture tender, juicy meat kissed by the flames, complemented by a marinade bursting with flavors.

Homemade grilled chicken thighs are perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, bringing everyone together around the table for a delicious feast. This dish will have your guests begging for seconds while you bask in the glory of your culinary skills.

I remember the first time I made these grilled chicken thighs for my friends their eyes lit up as they took their first bites. The compliments flowed like a fine wine

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken Thighs: Opt for skin-on thighs for extra flavor they’re juicier than breasts and packed with goodness.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil helps lock in moisture while adding richness.
• Garlic Powder: Use fresh garlic if you can it provides a robust flavor profile that elevates everything.
• Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika adds warmth and depth I love using smoked for that barbecue essence.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce brings umami without overwhelming saltiness it’s perfect here
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives a mild kick don’t skip this seasoning
• Salt: Essential to enhance all those glorious flavors adjust to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken Thighs: In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well mixed. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have time, overnight is best

Preheat Your Grill: Get your grill heated up to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If using charcoal, let those coals turn white hot before cooking.

Grill the Chicken Thighs: Place marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until they develop beautiful grill marks and release from the grates easily.

Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn over the thighs and grill for another 7-10 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Add Some Sizzle: For an extra touch of flavor, brush more marinade onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. The sizzling sound is music to your ears

Rest Before Serving: Once off the grill, let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute this step is crucial for maximum juiciness

Now you have perfectly grilled chicken thighs ready to impress Serve them with your favorite sides and prepare for compliments galore Enjoy every bite and relish the satisfaction of creating this delectable dish at home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken thighs for at least an hour this infuses flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and sear each side for 6-7 minutes until beautifully charred and cooked through.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with spices like smoked paprika or add a splash of citrus to brighten the marinade. Fresh herbs can also elevate flavors experiment with rosemary or cilantro

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.

Sometimes, I whip up these homemade grilled chicken thighs for family gatherings, and the compliments never stop coming Everyone loves them, especially my uncle who claims he’s a grill master but always asks for my secret.

FAQ

How long should I marinate homemade grilled chicken thighs?

Marinate for at least one hour or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.

What is the best temperature to grill chicken thighs?

Grill chicken thighs at medium-high heat around 375°F to 450°F for optimal results.

Can I use skinless chicken thighs in this recipe?

Yes, skinless chicken thighs can be used but may require careful cooking to retain moisture.

Print

Grilled Chicken Thighs

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Indulge in the savory goodness of grilled chicken thighs, marinated to perfection with a blend of spices and herbs. This easy recipe ensures tender, juicy meat with a mouthwatering golden-brown crust that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, these chicken thighs promise to be a hit at any gathering. Gather around the grill and elevate your culinary skills with this simple yet delicious dish.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best results).
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
3. Place marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until grill marks appear and they easily release from the grates.
4. Flip the thighs and grill for another 7-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Optionally brush more marinade during the last few minutes.
5. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Customize your marinade by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro. For added zest, include citrus slices on the grill alongside the chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain moisture.