Introduction
Chicken thighs are a delicious and inexpensive cut of meat that are perfect for grilling and barbecuing. When cooked properly, chicken thighs can be juicy, flavorful and tender. However, chicken thighs require some special considerations when cooking on the grill in order to avoid drying them out or undercooking them. This guide will provide tips and techniques for how to BBQ chicken thighs correctly, resulting in perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Select the Right Thighs
The first step in grilling great chicken thighs is choosing high-quality thighs. Look for thighs that are evenly sized so they will cook at the same rate. Avoid extremely large or small thighs. Skinless boneless thighs are the easiest to work with, but skin-on bone-in thighs will have the best flavor from the fat and skin. Just take care not to burn the skin. Organic and free-range thighs often have a better texture and taste.
Properly Season
Seasoning is key for adding flavor and encouraging browning when barbecuing chicken thighs. Use salt, pepper and any additional dried herbs and spices. Let the seasoned thighs sit for 15-30 minutes before grilling so the seasoning can fully penetrate the meat. This helps flavor the interior and exterior of the thighs. Consider using a marinade, rub or brine to further boost flavor.
Useful Marinades and Rubs
- Lemon-herb marinade
- BBQ sauce
- Jerk seasoning rub
- Cajun spice rub
- Garlic-ginger marinade
- Tuscan herb blend
Grill Indirectly First
The best way to ensure tender, juicy chicken thighs is to start by grilling them indirectly. This means placing them on the cooler side of the grill away from direct heat. Grill over medium indirect heat with the lid closed for 15-25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using indirect heat prevents the thighs from burning on the outside before the inside is done.
Ideal Indirect Grilling Temperatures
- Charcoal Grill: Arrange coals on either side, grill in center at 300-350°F
- Gas Grill: Turn off burner(s) under thighs, grill at medium heat 325-375°F
Finish Directly Over Heat
Once the chicken thighs are nearly cooked through, move them directly over the heat source to add color, texture and finish cooking. Grill for 2-5 minutes per side over direct high heat until nicely seared. Brush on a glaze or sauce during the last few minutes if desired. Remove immediately once the internal temperature reaches 175°F to prevent overcooking.
Signs of Properly Grilled Thighs
- Clear juices
- Firm texture
- Nice char marks
- Internal temp of 175°F
Allow Thighs to Rest
Let the grilled chicken thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to re-absorb back into the meat for increased moisture and tenderness. Tent them loosely with foil as they rest. Lightly brush or drizzle chicken with sauce just before serving if you want more flavor.
Top Tips
- Pat thighs dry before seasoning and grilling for better browning
- Use skinless thighs for healthier grilling
- Cut slashes into the skin to prevent curling and shrinkage
- Rotate thighs every 5 minutes for even cooking
- Do not overcrowd the grill, leave space between thighs
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy
- Let thighs come completely to room temperature before grilling
Grilling chicken thighs may seem tricky, but following these guidelines will ensure you get picture-perfect BBQ chicken thighs every time. With indirect heat, proper seasoning and a little patience you’ll have delicious, juicy and flavor-packed chicken thighs off the grill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best temperature to grill chicken thighs?
Indirectly grill chicken thighs around 300-350°F to cook through without burning. Finish over direct high heat around 450-500°F to sear the outside. Use a meat thermometer to confirm thighs reach 175°F.
How long should you grill bone-in chicken thighs?
Grill bone-in thighs for around 35-40 minutes total. Grill 20-25 minutes indirectly until 165°F then finish 5-10 minutes directly over heat until 175°F internal temp. Time will vary based on thickness.
Can you grill chicken thighs from frozen?
It is best to thaw chicken thighs before grilling for even cooking. If grilling from frozen, use indirect heat and add at least 10 extra minutes to the cooking time. Test temperature to ensure thighs are fully cooked.
What is the best BBQ sauce for chicken thighs?
Sweet and tangy BBQ sauces pair well with chicken. Ketchup-based sauces, honey BBQ and brown sugar BBQ sauce are especially delicious on grilled chicken thighs. Brush on sauce just during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
How do you keep chicken thighs moist on the grill?
Start thighs indirectly, grill over moderate heat and don’t overcook. Leaving the skin on and bone in also keeps thighs juicier. Let thighs rest after grilling so juices redistribute. Brushing on sauce adds flavorful moisture. Avoid pressing down as it releases juices.
Conclusion
Grilling juicy, tasty chicken thighs simply comes down to using indirect heat, properly seasoning, cooking to the right internal temperature and avoiding overcooking. With a few easy techniques, you can become a pro at making succulent barbecue chicken thighs all summer long. Experiment with different sauces and spice rubs to customize the flavor. Impress your family and friends with your flawlessly barbecued chicken thighs off the grill.