BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs Flavorful Meal Idea

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game with juicy BBQ grilled chicken thighs? This flavorful meal idea combines tender meat with a zesty marinade that will impress friends and family at your next cookout. In this guide, I’ll walk you through simple steps and tips to ensure your chicken is perfectly grilled every time. Let’s dive in and turn up the heat!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 1/4 cup pure honey

– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon sea salt

– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for desired heat)

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

For BBQ grilled chicken thighs, you need basic and tasty ingredients. The chicken thighs should have skin for crispiness. The marinade gives flavor and moisture. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients:

– Chicken thighs and marinade components: The chicken thighs are the star. We use olive oil for richness, apple cider vinegar for tang, honey for sweetness, and Dijon mustard for a zesty kick. Garlic and smoked paprika add depth.

– Seasonings and optional ingredients: Sea salt and black pepper bring out the natural flavor. Cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can skip it if you prefer milder taste.

– Garnishes for presentation: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds color and a nice taste.

For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Marinade

To start, whisk together these ingredients in a medium bowl:

– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 1/4 cup pure honey

– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon sea salt

– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Mix well until everything blends. This marinade gives your chicken a wonderful flavor. Marinating is key. I recommend at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This time helps the chicken absorb all those tasty flavors. To coat evenly, use a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Make sure every piece is covered with the marinade.

Grilling Process

Now it’s time to grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Once your grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade. Let excess marinade drip off and toss it away. Lay the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and has nice grill marks.

Flip the chicken and grill for another 6 to 8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside, and the juices should run clear. If you want a caramelized finish, brush on extra honey during the last minute of grilling.

Serving Suggestions

After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken on a rustic wooden platter. Add lemon wedges and a side of grilled seasonal veggies. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and fresh flavor. You can find the full recipe above for more details!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

To get the most flavor from your BBQ grilled chicken thighs, consider these tips:

– Adjust Seasonings: If you want more heat, add extra cayenne pepper. If you like it sweeter, add more honey.

– Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool ensures your chicken is safe to eat. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for juicy meat.

– Avoid Flare-Ups: Keep an eye on the grill heat. Move chicken away from flames if they flare up.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling chicken can be done in two ways: direct and indirect grilling.

– Direct Grilling: This method cooks chicken quickly over direct heat. It’s great for getting crispy skin.

– Indirect Grilling: This method cooks chicken slowly away from the heat. It keeps meat juicy and tender.

– Using Wood Chips: Try adding soaked wood chips to your grill for a smoky taste. Choose hickory or mesquite for strong flavors.

– Flipping Chicken: Use tongs to flip the chicken. Do this gently to keep the skin intact and prevent tearing.

These tips will help you create a flavorful BBQ grilled chicken thigh meal that impresses everyone at the table. For the complete process and ingredients, check the Full Recipe.

Variations

Flavor Profile Adjustments

You can change up the taste of your BBQ grilled chicken thighs with new marinades. Try using a mix of coconut milk, lime, and ginger for a tropical touch. This will give your chicken a bright, fresh flavor.

If you like heat, add a spicy kick. Use hot sauce or crushed red pepper in your marinade. This will make your chicken more exciting. Just remember to adjust the heat to your liking.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t want to grill, you can still make tasty chicken thighs. Oven baking is easy. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. This will give you juicy, flavorful chicken.

For a smoky taste, try slow cooking. Use a smoker for a few hours. This will infuse your chicken with rich flavors.

Another method is using an air fryer. This can make your chicken crispy without much oil. It cooks faster too, which is great for busy days.

You can find the full recipe [here](#).

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your BBQ grilled chicken thighs, follow these steps:

– Let the chicken cool down to room temperature.

– Place the chicken in an airtight container.

– Cover it tightly to keep out air and moisture.

You can keep the chicken in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.

For freezing marinated chicken, do this:

– Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag.

– Squeeze out as much air as possible.

– Label the bag with the date and use it within 3 months.

Reheating Techniques

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here are some ways to reheat without drying them out:

– Use the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.

– Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of water and cover. Heat in short bursts, checking often.

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety. Always check for hot spots in the chicken when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Expect about 4 to 6 minutes per side on the grill. Boneless thighs are great for quick meals. However, bone-in thighs provide richer flavor and moisture. If you want a juicy meal, stick with bone-in.

How long to marinate chicken thighs?

Marinate chicken thighs for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, aim for 8 hours or overnight. This lets the chicken soak up all the tasty marinade. If you marinate for too long, the meat can become mushy. So, watch the clock for perfect flavor!

What to serve with BBQ grilled chicken thighs?

Some popular sides include corn on the cob, coleslaw, or baked beans. You can also try a fresh garden salad. These dishes balance the rich flavor of the chicken. For drinks, go for iced tea or lemonade. These beverages add a refreshing touch to the meal.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Soaking wooden skewers helps prevent burning. If you forget, you can use metal skewers instead. They are heat-resistant and reusable. This way, you avoid the hassle of burnt skewers while grilling. Remember, a little prep goes a long way!

For the full recipe on BBQ grilled chicken thighs, check out the detailed guide. Enjoy your cooking!

Grilling chicken thighs can be easy and fun. We’ve covered ingredients, from marinades to spices. You learned how to prepare and grill effectively. I shared tips for better flavor and techniques to enhance your dish. Remember to explore variations like different marinades or cooking methods. Store and reheat leftovers safely to enjoy later. With these steps and tips, your grilled chicken can impress everyone. Embrace the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors!

BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your summer grilling with these BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs! Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a delicious blend of olive oil, honey, and spices create a mouth-watering dish perfect for any occasion. Just a few simple steps will lead to a flavorful, crispy delight that your family and friends will love. Click through to explore this recipe and make your next BBQ unforgettable!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup pure honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for desired heat)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. This mixture will serve as your flavorful marinade.

Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a wide shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. For optimal flavor, marinating overnight is highly recommended.

When you're ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C).

After marinating, take the chicken out of the refrigerator. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and allow any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade—do not reuse it.

Lay the chicken thighs skin-side down on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until the skin turns crispy and showcases beautiful grill marks.

Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and continue grilling for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. Ensure they are cooked to perfection by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices flow clear when pierced.

For an added layer of flavor and a delightful caramelized finish, consider brushing a little extra honey onto the chicken during the last minute of grilling.

Once perfectly grilled, remove the chicken thighs from the grill and allow them to rest for approximately 5 minutes. This step helps to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to bring a splash of color and a burst of fresh flavor to your dish.

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 2 hours 15 min | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken thighs on a rustic wooden platter. Accompany with lemon wedges and a side of grilled seasonal vegetables for an appetizing presentation. Enjoy!