These grilled boneless chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! With simple spices and a quick cook on the grill, they’re perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner.
Honestly, I can’t resist the crispy edges and tender meat. They disappear faster than you can say “who wants seconds?” Get ready for empty plates! 😄
What I love is how easy they are to marinate in your favorite sauce. Just grill them up, and you’re all set for a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for grilling because they stay juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts work too, but they may dry out more easily.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder could work in a pinch; just use 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Paprika: I recommend using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, but regular paprika is fine too. You could also try chili powder if you want some heat.
Ground Cumin & Ground Coriander: These spices bring warmth and earthiness. If you don’t have them, a curry powder mix could be a nice alternative for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for grilling, you can substitute it with vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, but bottled lemon juice works too. If you’re out of lemon, vinegar can provide acidity, though the flavor will differ.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Thighs Are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs can be tricky, but here are steps to make sure they turn out great every time:
- Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is better. This adds flavor and tenderness.
- Preheating the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to seal in juices and gives those beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t Move the Chicken: Once it’s on the grill, let it cook without moving it around. This helps form a nice crust.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. This ensures juiciness without drying it out.
- Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
Follow these tips, and your grilled boneless chicken thighs will be flavorful and tender every time!
How to Make Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (you can marinate it overnight for better flavor!). After marinating, you’ll need about 15 minutes to grill the chicken. So in total, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours to get this delicious dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix everything together very well until it forms a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken so all pieces are fully coated in the yummy marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or for the best flavors, overnight is ideal!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled so the chicken doesn’t stick.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Remember to discard the leftover marinade to keep things safe and clean!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs onto the hot grill. Let them cook without moving for about 6-7 minutes so you can get those nice grill marks. After that, flip the chicken thighs over and grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicy bite! Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a colorful finish!
Enjoy your grilled boneless chicken thighs with your favorite sides! Happy grilling!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but the cooking time will be longer. Bone-in thighs take about 10-12 minutes per side on the grill. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Each of these will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all work well in the marinade.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
It’s best to marinate the chicken for no more than 24 hours. Marinating for too long can cause the chicken to become mushy due to the acidity of the lemon juice. If you need to prepare it a day ahead, stick to the overnight marinating time.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will be good for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the grill or in a microwave briefly until warmed through.
