# How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs: A Complete Guide
Grilling chicken thighs is a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. These cuts of meat are flavorful, juicy, and perfect for a summer barbecue. However, many people struggle with understanding how long to grill chicken thighs for the best results. This article will break down the cooking time, temperatures, and techniques needed to achieve perfectly grilled chicken thighs every time.
## Understanding Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs come in two main varieties: boneless and bone-in. Both types offer great flavor and tenderness but require slightly different cooking times. Knowing the best temperature for grilling chicken thighs and how long to grill them can elevate your grilling game and ensure juicy grilled chicken thighs every time.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Chicken Thighs
Hereās a detailed guide to help you achieve the perfect grilled chicken thighs.
### 1. Choose Your Chicken Thighs
– **Boneless Chicken Thighs**: These cook faster, making them a great option for a quick meal.
– **Bone-In Chicken Thighs**: These provide more flavor but take a bit longer to cook.
### 2. Marinate Your Chicken Thighs
– Marinating chicken thighs adds flavor and helps keep them moist. Use a simple marinade of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
### 3. Preheat Your Grill
– **Charcoal Grill**: Light your charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
– **Gas Grill**: Preheat on medium-high (about 400-450Ā°F).
### 4. Season Your Chicken Thighs
– Before grilling, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy. This can include paprika, garlic powder, or your favorite barbecue rub.
### 5. Grill the Chicken Thighs
– **Cooking Time**:
– **Boneless Chicken Thighs**: Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side.
– **Bone-In Chicken Thighs**: Grill for about 8-10 minutes per side.
– **Grilling Temperature**: Aim for a grill temperature of 400-450Ā°F.
### 6. Flip the Chicken Thighs
– Flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
### 7. Check Doneness
Image credit: AI generated via OpenAI.
– Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165Ā°F. This ensures they are cooked through but still juicy.
### 8. Let Them Rest
– After grilling, let the chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite.
## Grilling Tips for Chicken Thighs
– **Avoid Overcooking**: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent dry chicken.
– **Use Indirect Heat**: For thicker thighs, consider using indirect heat to cook them evenly without burning the outside.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your perfect flavor combination.
## FAQs About Grilling Chicken Thighs
### How long should I marinate chicken thighs?
Marinate chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.
### What is the best way to check for doneness?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165Ā°F.
### Can I grill chicken thighs on a gas grill?
Yes! Gas grills are excellent for grilling chicken thighs. Just ensure they’re preheated to the right temperature.
### What if I donāt have a thermometer?
You can cut into the thickest part of the thigh; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
### Can I use a dry rub instead of a marinade?
Absolutely! A dry rub can add wonderful flavor without the need for marinating.
## Additional Insights
For those looking to explore advanced grilling techniques, consider using wood chips for added smoke flavor. Soak the chips in water for 30 minutes before placing them on the grill. This will create a delightful smoky aroma that enhances your juicy grilled chicken thighs.
Grilling chicken thighs is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a delicious experience. Donāt hesitate to invite friends and family to share this delightful meal!
## Conclusion
Grilling chicken thighs is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. By following these guidelines on cooking time, temperature, and techniques, you can create juicy grilled chicken thighs that will impress everyone at your next barbecue. So fire up that grill, try out these methods, and enjoy the incredible flavors of perfectly grilled chicken thighs!