Are you wondering how long to grill chicken thighs? I have to admit, grilling chicken thighs seemed a little daunting to me. Bruce has always been the chicken griller at our house. We are big smoked chicken fans, and often are smoking a whole chicken on the weekends. However, for a quicker week night meal, grilled smoked chicken thighs are perfect!.
Tender chicken thighs take less time than chicken breasts to cook. By following these step by step instructions you will get the best results. For added flavor, we are using Western Wood BBQ Cherry wood chunks. The smoke from these chunks adds great flavor, and if you follow these easy steps, you will always have juicy chicken.
Backyard grill experts may find it hard to cook juicy, flavorful bone-in chicken thighs. But if you follow the right steps, watch the temperature, and use the right technique, you’ll have tender, juicy chicken thighs in no time. This article will tell you everything you need to know to grill chicken thighs with the bones still in them.
Why Choose Bone-In Chicken Thighs for Grilling
Chicken thighs are a top choice for the grill, thanks to their naturally rich flavor and juiciness. Opting for bone-in chicken thighs offers some key advantages:
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More flavorful – The bone imparts extra flavor and moisture into the meat during cooking. This gives you the most succulent, savory chicken possible.
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Added insulation – The bone helps insulate the meat slowing cooking and keeping the inside tender while allowing the outside to get crispy.
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Bone-in thighs hold their shape better on the grill grates than boneless thighs, which makes them easier to flip.
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Economical – Bone-in chicken thighs are often more budget-friendly than boneless cuts.
With a little knowledge, bone-in chicken thighs deliver incredible results on the grill every time.
Step 1: Pat Chicken Thighs Dry
Make sure to dry the chicken thighs with paper towels before you put them on the grill. This helps promote browning and prevents the meat from steaming. Removing excess moisture allows the chicken skin to get crispy.
Step 2: Season Generously
For the best flavor, generously coat both sides of the thighs with seasoning. Try a simple blend of salt, pepper and garlic powder or get creative with spices like smoked paprika, chili powder or cumin. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.
Step 3: Grill on Medium-High Heat
Grill the thighs over direct medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F. This strikes the perfect balance between nicely seared outsides and fully cooked insides without making the outsides too crispy.
Use a grill thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature. If grilling over charcoal, let the coals ash over before placing the thighs on the grate.
Step 4: Grill Skin Side Down First
Place the thighs skin side down and grill for 5-6 minutes before flipping. Letting the skin side sear helps render fat and achieve that crispy skin we love. Don’t move the thighs too soon or the skin may tear.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
After searing the skin side, flip the thighs and grill for another 15-20 minutes on the meatier side. Flipping halfway through ensures even browning and cooking.
Rotate or move the thighs as needed to prevent burning. Tent with foil if they brown too quickly.
Step 6: Check Temperature
The best way to ensure your chicken thighs are fully cooked is to use an instant read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a thigh, avoiding the bone.
The thighs are finished cooking when the thermometer reads 165°F. If under, grill a few more minutes until up to temperature.
Step 7: Let Chicken Rest
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken thighs to a platter and tent with foil. Letting the thighs rest 5-10 minutes allows juices to reabsorb for incredibly moist, tender meat.
After resting, the chicken is ready to serve! Enjoy it on its own, sliced in a salad, tucked in a sandwich or however you prefer.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Results
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Allow 20-25 minutes total cooking time for average sized bone-in thighs. Larger pieces may need slightly longer.
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Use tongs and grill-safe oven mitts for easy, protected handling at the grill.
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Apply a light coating of oil to the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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Add hardwood chips or chunks to infuse extra smoky flavor.
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Work over direct heat for sear marks and indirect for gentler cooking if needed.
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Brush on a sweet-savory glaze the last 5 minutes for glistening, caramelized results.
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Resist the urge to move or flip the thighs too early so searing can happen.
With the right prep, seasoning and monitoring, you can masterfully grill juicy, flavor-packed bone-in chicken thighs. Rely on a thermometer for doneness and allow the meat to rest. In about 25 minutes, you’ll have simply amazing chicken ready to enjoy.
Should I use bone-in chicken thighs, or boneless thighs?
Knowing these are being smoked for a salad, we are using skinless chicken thighs that are also boneless. If you are looking for crispy skin, you will want to use bone-in skin-on chicken thighs. It is comepletly up to your preference. Prepare these on the weekend and store them in a container that won’t let air in. During the week, eat them for lunch or dinner. I love using them in quesidillas, sandwiches, and salads!.
Step 2: Prepare the grill
We fire up our Big Green Egg with lump charcoal. Once the fire dies down, and the hot coals are ready, we place 1 or 2 pieces of Western Premium BBQ cherry wood chunks in the center of the glowing charcoal. The best temperature for grilling chicken thighs is a medium-high heat. At this point place if you have a plate setter, place it over the heat and add the grill. Using a paper towel with a little olive oil, brush the grill grates so the chicken does not stick.
Beginners Guide to Grilling Chicken Thighs
FAQ
How long do bone-in chicken thighs take to grill?
Bone-in chicken thighs typically take 30-45 minutes to grill, depending on the heat of the grill and the size of the thighs.
Is it better to grill chicken at 350 or 400?
For grilling chicken, it’s generally better to use a medium-high heat, which translates to a temperature range of 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). This range allows for a good sear on the outside while ensuring the chicken cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How long does it take to cook a bone-in thigh?
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.
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?.