These juicy marinated grilled chicken thighs are a hit at any barbecue! With a simple mix of spices and a zesty marinade, they’re bursting with flavor!
Grilling them gives that perfect smoky taste that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I often pair these with fresh veggies or a salad—yummy and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and stay tender on the grill. If you only have chicken breasts, they work too, but remember to watch the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Soy Sauce: For a low-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great alternative. You could even try coconut aminos for a slightly different flavor profile!
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness to balance the saltiness from the soy sauce. If you need a sugar-free alternative, consider using agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia, just adjust the quantity to taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both provide acidity to the marinade. I prefer apple cider vinegar for a milder taste, but fresh lemon juice adds a lovely brightness. Use whichever you like or have on hand!
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs so they come out juicy and flavorful is easier than you think! Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure to marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour, or even better, overnight. This helps infuse the flavors.
- Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Keep it hot, but not too hot, so the outside doesn’t burn before the inside cooks.
- Let the marinated chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t skip the resting time after grilling! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep those juices inside.
Enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken thighs with nice grill marks and a bit of char for flavor!
Easy Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- For Topping:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a marinating time of at least 1 hour—up to overnight if you have the time! Then, grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, in total, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most of that being marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and dried oregano in a medium bowl until everything is well blended. This mixture will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge to marinate. For the best flavor, let it sit for at least 1 hour, or longer if you can!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to help keep the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the internal temperature to hit 165°F (75°C), and you want some nice grill marks on there!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken nice and juicy. After resting, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in this recipe, but keep in mind they may need a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 1 hour to 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb—just be careful not to exceed 24 hours to avoid a mushy texture!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option, or use tamari. Also, a mixture of water with a bit of salt can work in a pinch, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for best results. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just ensure they’re cooled before freezing!
