How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs for Juicy, Flavorful Results

by

Grilling has become a beloved pastime for many, and chicken thighs are often a top choice when it comes to perfecting the art of grilling.

Let’s explore the ins and outs of grilling chicken thighs to help you always achieve mouthwatering results. Knowing how long to grill chicken thighs is essential for a successful grilling experience and ensuring your dish is flavorful and cooked safely.

So, lets get into everything you need to know about chicken thighs and uncover the tricks to grilling them to perfection.

Chicken thighs are a staple at barbecues because they taste great and are easy to cook. However, getting the timing just right is important for getting tender, juicy meat. If you cook them too long, the meat gets dry and chewy, and if you cook them too little, the flavor is lost.

So how long should you grill chicken thighs? The ideal cooking time depends on a few factors:

Bone-in vs Boneless Thighs

  • It takes longer to grill thighs with bones because the bone acts as an insulator and slows down the cooking process. Allow 8-10 minutes per side for bone-in thighs.

  • Boneless thighs cook faster without the bone. They take approximately 6-8 minutes per side.

Thickness

  • Thicker thighs require more time on the grill. An extra 1/2 inch can make the cooking time go up by 3 to 4 minutes.

  • Take thickness into account and adjust cooking times accordingly. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness.

Grill Temperature

  • Grill temperature impacts cooking time A hot grill around 400°F cooks faster than a lower 300°F temp

  • For ideal results, maintain a steady grill temperature between 375-450°F.

  • If grilling indirectly, expect the times to increase by 5-10 minutes.

Marinating

  • Marinating chicken thighs adds flavor but can also affect cooking time.

  • Acidic marinades may start to “cook” the meat, reducing the time needed on the grill.

  • Sugary marinades caramelize and char faster, so watch closely to avoid burning.

Checking Doneness

  • Always use an instant-read thermometer to test for doneness, regardless of cooking time.

  • Chicken thighs are safe to eat at 165°F but for ideal texture, cook to 185°F.

  • Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a thigh, avoiding bone.

  • 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:

  • Start with skin-side up for 5-6 minutes.

  • Flip and grill skin-side down for 3-4 minutes.

  • Keep flipping and rotating every few minutes.

  • Skin faces up more than down overall.

  • 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

  • Trim excess fat to minimize flare-ups that can char the thighs.

  • Use a marinade for added moisture – try yogurt, buttermilk or citrus juices.

  • Brine the thighs before grilling to boost flavor and retain juiciness.

  • Grill indirectly on a 2-zone fire if struggling with burning.

  • Apply a light coating of oil to help retain moisture during grilling.

  • Use a meat thermometer and cook to 185°F for ideal doneness.

  • Allow thighs to rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.

Estimated Grill Times for Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs

  • 8-10 minutes per side

  • 25-30 minutes total

Boneless chicken thighs

  • 6-8 minutes per side

  • 15-20 minutes total

Chicken thighs (indirect heat)

  • 10-12 minutes per side

  • 30-40 minutes total

Marinated chicken thighs

  • 6-10 minutes per side

  • 20-25 minutes total

Chicken thighs (over 375°F grill)

  • 6-8 minutes per side

  • 20-25 minutes total

Chicken thighs (over 450°F grill)

  • 4-6 minutes per side

  • 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 grill chicken thigh

How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs

What we need to talk about is how long to grill chicken thighs, whether they have bones or not.

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: To make sure food is safe, the temperature inside grilled chicken thighs should reach 165°F (74°C). This temperature kills any bacteria that might be there and makes sure the chicken is fully cooked.
  • How long does it take to cook? Bone-in chicken thighs usually take six to eight minutes on each side on the grill. But the cooking time may change based on how thick the thighs are and how hot the grill is. To keep the chicken from being undercooked or overcooked, it’s important to get the cooking time right.
  • Keeping an eye on the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken thighs reach a safe temperature inside. Place the thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. When it reads 165°F (74°C), it’s time to take the chicken thighs off the grill.

Grilling boneless chicken thighs allows for faster and more convenient cooking. Heres a guideline for how long to grill boneless chicken thighs:

  • For safety reasons, boneless chicken thighs need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), the same as bone-in chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature monitoring.
  • Less time spent cooking: Since boneless chicken thighs don’t have bones to keep them warm, they need less time on the grill. Boneless chicken thighs usually need four to six minutes on each side to cook all the way through. But change the cooking time depending on how thick the thighs are and how hot your grill is.
  • Using a Meat Thermometer: To be sure the chicken thighs are cooked all the way through, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. Your boneless thighs are ready to be taken off the grill when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). They will be juicy and safe to eat.

How To Elevate Your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Tasty Variations

If you want to make your grilled chicken thighs taste even better, try using different marinade and seasoning blends.

Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

  • Lemon Herb: To make a zesty and fragrant marinade, mix fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  • For an Asian twist, make a teriyaki glaze by mixing soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil. It will be sweet and savory.
  • To make a spicy Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. This will give your food a strong, fiery flavor.
  • Mediterranean Delight: For a Mediterranean-style marinade that gives chicken thighs a burst of freshness, mix minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, lemon zest, olive oil, and a little white wine vinegar.
  • Honey Mustard: Mix Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and a little salt and black pepper in a bowl. This will make a sticky, tangy glaze that turns into a beautiful caramel on the grill.

You can combine these flavor profiles in any way you like, change the amounts of ingredients to suit your tastes, and make your own unique 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?

To cook chicken on a grill at 400°F, the cooking time varies based on the cut of chicken. It usually takes 5–6 minutes per side for boneless, skinless breasts, but 30–40 minutes total, with a flip in the middle, for boned-in 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).

Should I flip chicken thighs on the grill?

Do you flip chicken thighs when grilling? Yes! For even cooking, flip the chicken thighs. For about 5 minutes on each side, get a good crust. Then, keep the lid on and cook, flipping the chicken every 2 to 3 minutes until it’s 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. Timing is hard for many home cooks because they want juicy, flavorful meat that doesn’t get too undercooked or too overcooked. 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.

Leave a Comment