Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the smoky, savory taste of grilled BBQ chicken? Boneless chicken thighs are the unsung heroes of grilling—juicy, flavorful, and quick to cook. This recipe will guide you through creating the most succulent BBQ chicken thighs, perfect for your next outdoor gathering or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken:

6–8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt

For the Marinade:

¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for basting)

Essential Tools for Grilling

A gas or charcoal grill
Tongs or a spatula
Meat thermometer
Grill brush for cleaning
A basting brush for the BBQ sauce

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels for better marinade absorption.

Creating the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, mustard, and BBQ sauce. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Grill

Clean the grill grates thoroughly and preheat to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). For charcoal grills, set up a two-zone fire for direct and indirect cooking.

Grilling the Chicken Thighs

Cooking Time and Techniques

Place the chicken thighs on the grill over direct heat.
Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the chicken develops a nice sear.
Move the chicken to indirect heat to finish cooking.

Checking for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should read 165°F for safe consumption.

Basting with BBQ Sauce

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken thighs with additional BBQ sauce on both sides. This adds a glossy, caramelized finish.

Resting the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs with:

Creamy coleslaw
Grilled corn on the cob
Roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad
For drinks, try a crisp lemonade or a chilled beer.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Thighs

Always preheat the grill to prevent sticking.
Avoid overcooking by using a thermometer.
Don’t apply BBQ sauce too early—it can burn quickly.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the marinade for heat.
Citrus Twist: Use lime or orange juice in place of vinegar.
Asian-Inspired: Swap BBQ sauce for teriyaki glaze.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven at low heat to prevent drying out.

Health Benefits of Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are rich in protein and contain essential nutrients like iron and zinc. While slightly higher in fat than chicken breasts, they offer more flavor and remain juicy when grilled.

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a summer cookout, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites.