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grilled chicken thigh

Easy Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes: 10 Best Ways

Grilled chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile choice for any meal. From zesty lemon-garlic marinades to smoky BBQ glazes, this guide covers essential techniques, seasoning tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless thighs, mastering this recipe ensures juicy, flavorful results every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • - Grill (gas or charcoal)
  • - Meat thermometer
  • - Mixing bowl or freezer-safe bag
  • - Tongs
  • - Grill brush

Ingredients
  

  • #### For the Basic Marinade:
  • - **2 lbs** boneless or bone-in chicken thighs
  • - **½ cup** orange juice
  • - **¼ cup** soy sauce
  • - **2 tbsp** olive oil
  • - **2** garlic cloves minced
  • - **½ tbsp** dried oregano
  • - **1 tsp** paprika
  • - **½ tsp** black pepper
  • #### For the Spice Rubs:
  • **Mediterranean Rub:**
  • - 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • - 1 tsp garlic powder
  • - Zest of 1 lemon
  • - ½ tsp black pepper
  • - ½ tsp salt
  • **Sweet and Smoky BBQ Blend:**
  • - 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • - 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • - 1 tsp chili powder
  • - ½ tsp black pepper
  • - ½ tsp salt
  • **Classic Herb Mix:**
  • - 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • - 1 tsp chopped rosemary
  • - 1 tsp chopped thyme
  • - 2 garlic cloves minced

Instructions
 

  • #### **Step 1: Prepare the Marinade or Spice Rub**
  • For the marinade, whisk together all ingredients in a bowl or bag. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2-24 hours.
  • For spice rubs, mix the ingredients in a bowl. Pat chicken dry, then rub the spice mixture evenly over each thigh.
  • #### **Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Grill**
  • Heat your grill to medium-high (400-450°F).
  • Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • #### **Step 3: Grill the Chicken Thighs**
  • Place chicken thighs on the grill. For bone-in thighs, start skin-side down.
  • Grill boneless thighs for 7-10 minutes per side and bone-in thighs for 9-15 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • #### **Step 4: Rest and Serve**
  • Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate. Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.