10 Best Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes You Need to Try

When the sun is out and the smell of charcoal wafts through the air, it’s time to grill. Grilled chicken thighs are the stars of summer barbecues. They add a rich flavor that makes any meal special. We’ve picked 10 top grilled chicken thigh recipes for you. They range from classic lemon-herb to bold Asian flavors and smoky BBQ. Each dish highlights the amazing taste of chicken thighs and how they soak up different seasonings.

Whether you’re a pro at grilling or new to it, these grilled chicken thigh recipes will inspire you. They’re perfect for making your summer gatherings unforgettable. So, fire up the grill and get ready for the juicy, flavorful marinated chicken thighs you’ll love. Let’s explore the best bbq chicken thighs together!

Why Choose grilled chicken thigh recipes?

Grilled chicken thighs are a top pick for many. They are more flavorful than leaner options and great for quick dinners. The crispy chicken thighs cook fast and stay tender, even when they’re perfectly grilled.

Flavor Profile of Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs have a rich, savory taste that’s perfect for marinades and rubs. Their fat content makes them juicy and prevents drying out. This helps them get a nice char on the outside while staying moist inside.

Nutritional Benefits

Despite being seen as less healthy than breasts, chicken thighs are actually nutritious. They’re full of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The healthy fats in thighs also help you feel full and support your health.

Versatility in Cooking

Chicken thighs are super versatile, working well with many cooking methods and flavors. You can grill, bake, or air fry them to fit your taste and needs. Their ability to absorb flavors makes them perfect for international dishes.

“Chicken thighs are my go-to choice for grilling. They always turn out juicy and flavorful, no matter how I season them.”

Essential Marinades for grilled chicken thigh recipes

Boosting the taste and tenderness of grilled chicken thighs is simple with the right marinade. Marinades add delicious flavors and make the chicken tender. Here are three key marinades to enhance your grilled chicken thigh recipes.

Classic Lemon Herb Marinade

This marinade is bright and zesty, with lemon juice and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Let your chicken thigh marinade soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for more flavor.

Spicy Asian-Inspired Marinade

For a bold flavor, try an Asian marinade with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add ginger and chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick. This marinade brings out salty, sweet, and spicy tastes in your grilled chicken thigh recipes. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Smoky Barbecue Marinade

Give your chicken thigh marinade a smoky twist. Mix brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add a bit of liquid smoke for depth. This marinade adds a rich flavor that matches the grill’s char. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.

Choose any marinade and let it work its magic. Chicken thighs should marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. This ensures your chicken thigh marinade makes the chicken tender and full of flavor.

“Marinades are the secret to unlocking the full flavor potential of grilled chicken thighs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience.”

Perfect Grilling Techniques: grilled chicken thigh recipes

Grilling bbq chicken thighs and grilled chicken thigh recipes requires the right techniques. This guide will help you grill chicken thighs perfectly. You’ll learn how to prep your grill and get juicy results.

Prepping Your Grill: grilled chicken thigh recipes

First, heat your grill to medium-high. For gas grills, use a two-zone fire setup. This means one side is hotter than the other. Charcoal grills need a cooler zone on one side for indirect cooking.

Recommended Cooking Temperatures: grilled chicken thigh recipes

Grill the chicken thighs until they hit 165°F. This is the FDA’s safe cooking temperature. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, then move to indirect heat to finish.

Tips for Juicy Chicken Thighs

To keep your bbq chicken thighs and grilled chicken thigh recipes moist, let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This lets the juices spread evenly, making the meat tender and juicy.

“Chicken thighs grill up in less than 15 minutes, making them the perfect weeknight dinner option.”

Recipe 1: Garlic and Herb grilled chicken thigh recipes

Get ready to wow your taste buds with this amazing grilled chicken thigh recipe! The secret is the garlic and herb marinade. It makes the chicken taste amazing with its mix of fragrant seasonings.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs (6 pieces) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
• 1/8 cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped
• 1/8 cup fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 cup cider vinegar
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 10-15 grinds of black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a big bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, cider vinegar, egg, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well-blended. Then, add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Cover the bowl and chill for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to let the flavors meld.

Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400-450°F. When it’s hot, put the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Grill for 10-12 minutes on each side, or until it reaches 165°F (74°C). Make sure to flip them a few times for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These tasty grilled chicken thighs go great with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or your favorite rice or quinoa. Serve them hot off the grill for a meal that will impress everyone.

Recipe 2: Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs

Take your grilling to the next level with this Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe. The mix of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger makes a delicious glaze. It turns your bbq chicken thighs into a juicy, flavorful dish.

Ingredients Overview

To make this Asian-inspired dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Soy sauce (use light or all-purpose, not dark or sweet)
• Honey
• Lemon or dry sherry
• Toasted sesame oil
• Freshly grated ginger
• Minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken thighs in the soy sauce, honey, lemon, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic mix. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 3 hours. Or up to 48 hours for even more tenderness.

When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium. Grill the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes. Baste them with the marinade mix until they reach 165°F inside.

Pairing Ideas

These Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs go great with many sides. Try them with fluffy coconut rice, stir-fried veggies, or a fresh Asian salad. The sweet and savory taste makes it perfect for any meal or BBQ.

Recipe 3: Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs

Start a flavorful journey with our Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe. It’s filled with warm spices and herbs. This dish brings a taste of the Bayou right to your table.

Key Ingredients: grilled chicken thigh recipes

The secret is in the homemade Cajun spice mix. It has paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. Rub this mix on your chicken thighs for amazing flavor.

Grilling Instructions: grilled chicken thigh recipes

1. Get your grill ready for medium-high heat, about 400-450°F.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and coat them with the Cajun spice mix. Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Grill the chicken thighs for 12-15 minutes, flipping once, until they reach 165°F inside.
4. Make sure the chicken gets a crispy, golden-brown outside for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes: grilled chicken thigh recipes

Pair the grilled chicken thighs with classic Southern sides. Corn on the cob and creamy coleslaw are great choices. The sweetness of the corn and the tangy slaw balance the spicy-savory chicken.

Enjoy the bold flavors of the Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs. Taste the South in every bite!

Recipe 4: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs

Try this amazing Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe for your next BBQ or dinner. These juicy, flavorful chicken thighs are a hit.

Ingredients Breakdown

The marinade is what makes this dish so tasty. You’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Dried oregano and rosemary
• Salt and black pepper

Cooking Steps

To make the marinated chicken thighs:

1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bag or dish. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight.

2. Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for 7-10 minutes on each side, until it’s 165°F inside. Flip them often for even cooking.

3. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoying with Tzatziki Sauce

Pair the chicken with a cool tzatziki sauce. Mix together:

• Greek yogurt
• Grated cucumber
• Minced garlic
• Chopped fresh dill
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy the chicken with tzatziki sauce, a Greek salad, and warm pita bread for a full Mediterranean meal.

Recipe 5: Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs

Get ready to fire up the grill for a mouthwatering grilled chicken thigh recipe with a teriyaki twist. This dish combines the savory-sweet flavors of homemade teriyaki marinade with the juicy, smoky goodness of grilled chicken thighs. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for your next backyard barbecue or family dinner.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Cooking Method

First, make the teriyaki marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger until well combined. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Grill the chicken for about 15 minutes, turning and basting with the reserved marinade every few minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the juicy, bbq chicken thighs hot off the grill, with grilled pineapple slices and steamed white rice for a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze pairs perfectly with the tender, grilled chicken thigh recipes. Enjoy this flavor-packed dish with family and friends, and savor the taste of summer all year round.

“The teriyaki marinade adds such a lovely balance of sweet and savory flavors to the chicken. Grilling it to perfection makes this dish truly irresistible.”

Recipe 6: Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs

Get ready for a burst of zesty, smoky flavors with our Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe. These juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a mix of chipotle peppers, fresh lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. They are a culinary delight that will take your grilling to the next level.

Ingredient List

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup finely chopped cilantro
• Juice of 4 limes, about ¼ cup
• 2 tablespoons water

Recipe Steps

1. In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, cilantro, lime juice, and water. This creates the marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 3 hours. This lets the flavors soak into the marinated chicken thighs.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
5. Grill the juicy chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Transfer the grilled chicken thighs to a serving platter. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Ideal Accompaniments

Serve these Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs with a refreshing Mexican-style corn and black bean salad. Or pair them with roasted sweet potatoes and a fresh green salad for a complete and flavorful meal.

Recipe 7: Greek Style Grilled Chicken Thighs

Try this Greek-inspired grilled chicken thigh recipe for a burst of flavor. These grilled chicken thigh recipes are tender, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean taste. They’re perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner.

What You’ll Need

• 1.5 to 2 pounds of crispy chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

First, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bag or dish. Add the grilled chicken thigh recipes and coat them well. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to let the flavors soak in.

Heat your grill to 400-450°F. Place the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down, on the grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the skin is golden. Flip them and grill for another 8 to 10 minutes, until they reach 165°F.

Let the crispy chicken thighs rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This step makes them juicy and flavorful. Serve with a salad, roasted lemon potatoes, and parsley for a full Mediterranean meal.

“These Greek-style grilled chicken thighs are a taste of the Mediterranean, with the perfect balance of tangy, herbal, and smoky flavors. A must-try for any chicken lover!”

Creative Ways to Serve grilled chicken thigh recipes

Grilled chicken thighs are super versatile. They can be part of many dishes, from fresh salads to hearty tacos and bowls. These tasty thighs make any meal better.

Salads and Wraps: grilled chicken thigh recipes

Try slicing or chopping your bbq chicken thighs and adding them to a green salad. Mix in crisp veggies, crumbled feta, and a zesty dressing. The juicy meat goes great with crunchy greens.

Or, wrap the grilled chicken thigh recipes in a warm tortilla. Add avocado, shredded cabbage, and creamy dressing for a tasty wrap.

Tacos and Bowls: grilled chicken thigh recipes

• Shred the grilled chicken thighs for a Tex-Mex meal. Serve them in soft taco shells with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and guacamole.
• Make a colorful rice bowl with grains, sautéed veggies, and the chicken. Top with chimichurri or pico de gallo.

Barbecue Platters: grilled chicken thigh recipes

No barbecue is complete without bbq chicken thighs. Pair them with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread for a summer feast.

Grilled chicken thighs are a flavor powerhouse. They’re perfect for salads, tacos, or barbecue platters. These versatile thighs will impress anyone.

Conclusion: Grilled Chicken Thighs for Every Occasion

Grilled chicken thighs are perfect for any meal. They’re great for a backyard barbecue or a quick dinner. This collection has recipes for every taste, from simple to complex.

Summary of Recipe Highlights

Try the Garlic and Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs for a zesty taste. Or, go for the Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs for a bold flavor. You can also enjoy the Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs for a rich taste or the Grilled Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Za’atar for a Mediterranean twist.

Encouragement to Experiment

Don’t be shy to try new marinades, spices, and cooking methods. You might love the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs or the Greek Style Grilled Chicken Thighs. Always cook your chicken to 165°F for safety and juiciness. The world of grilled chicken thighs is full of possibilities.