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EASY Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.1 from 21 reviews

These EASY Grilled Chicken Thighs are perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked to juicy perfection on a hot grill. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy tender, boneless skinless chicken thighs with a smoky char and optional fresh herb garnish.

  • Total Time: 20 mins (excluding optional marinating time)
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2- lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½-1 tablespoon salt
  • 1½ teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1½ teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley

Serve & Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro
  • Lemons or limes for a squeeze of lemon or lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag. Combine brown sugar, salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, basil, and parsley in a smaller bowl or sprinkle directly over the chicken. Add olive oil and toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly. Cover or seal and let marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. Preheat and Prepare Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Once hot, grease the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill and reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken develops a nice char on one side.
  4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the chicken thighs and continue grilling until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  5. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and loosely cover with foil. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute before serving.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavors.

Notes

  • For more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature.
  • If using a grill pan, grease it well to avoid sticking.
  • Adjust the salt quantity to taste depending on dietary preferences.
  • Serve with fresh herbs and citrus to add freshness and brightness.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American