Grilling whole boneless chicken thighs is enjoyed by backyard grillers and home cooks for a variety of reasons: taste, cooking time, and that it is more forgiving than other cuts of chicken. Remember that boneless chicken thighs contain a higher fat content than chicken breast and as a result, are less likely to dry out and will pick up flavor much better when marinated or seasoned with rubs. However, many people whose grilling experience is built on opinion and experience still ask the same question for the same reasons: how long do I grill boneless chicken thighs? This article serves as a fully fact checked, step by step, expert led guide for grilling boneless chicken thighs. From marinating your chicken thighs, to exact grill times and temperatures, this article covers it all, so continue reading to get the exact steps and grill times necessary for perfecting delicious and juicy boneless chicken thighs cooked to perfection every time.
Why Boneless Chicken Thighs Are Ideal for Grilling
Boneless thighs are preferred by many because they:
- Cook faster than bone-in thighs.
- Absorb marinades more effectively due to their uniform surface.
- Stay juicy and tender, even if slightly overcooked.
- Are versatile for both Western and Asian-style grilling recipes.
Compared to breasts, thighs contain more connective tissue and fat, which breaks down during grilling to enhance flavor and texture.
Prep Tips Before Grilling Boneless Chicken Thighs
Proper preparation leads to better results. So here’s what you should do before grilling:
- Trim excess fat: Remove the visible chunks of fat or sinew from the meat to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
- Flatten for even cooking: Lightly pound thick areas with a meat mallet to create uniform thickness, this will help your meat be more even and easier to grill.
- Marinate: Use a marinade with acidic elements like lemon juice, yogurt, or vinegar for at least 30 minutes to improve tenderness, aside from adding flavour, it’ll also make the meat softer.
- Season generously: Whether dry rub or wet marinade, season both sides thoroughly for a delicious mouthful.
- Preheat the grill: Allow your grill to preheat for at least 10 minutes to reach optimal temperature, this will ensure that the meat does not stick to a cold grill.
How Long To Grill Boneless Chicken Thighs
Grilling boneless chicken thigh requires due consideration to the time, temperature, and technique. Normally, a boneless thigh takes 6 to 8 minutes to grill on one side over medium-high heat (somewhere in the near 400°F to 450°F or 200°C to 230°C.) This brings in between a total grilling time of 12 and 16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat and the consistency of heat output from the grill.
Yet one cannot measure grilling by time alone. The best way of knowing when it's done is the internal temperature. Using a digital meat thermometer, ensure that the chicken has hit 165°F (74°C) at its thickest spot. And just so you know: undercooked chicken may be unsafe, whereas overcooked one is definitely dry, although thighs are more forgiving when compared to breasts.
For best results:
- Preheat your grill thoroughly for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place the thighs smooth side down first to get a good sear.
- Grill for 6–8 minutes, then flip and grill the other side for another 6–8 minutes.
- Avoid pressing the chicken with your spatula, as this squeezes out juices that make the meat tastier.
- If your thighs are especially thick, consider closing the grill lid to trap heat and reduce cooking time; beating it with a mallet to the same evenness is a good tip for this issue.
- Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
Any thicker cuts of the thigh, or uneven cuts of the thighs, may need one to two minutes extra over indirect heat or a low flame to finish cooking without overburning the surface. With marinades containing sugar (BBQ, teriyaki), reduce the heat slightly so it can caramelize but not quickly burn into char.
Time is of the essence, but it is more so the seasoning and the technique that creates juicy, safe, and flavorful food results.
Grilling Techniques to Maximize Flavor
To enhance flavor and moisture during grilling:
- Oil the grates: This tip helps to prevent sticking and improve sear marks.
- Don’t flip too early: Let the meat naturally release from the grate before flipping (usually around the 6-minute mark).
- Use a thermometer: Avoid guessing if the meat is cooked all the way through, insert the thermometer into the thickest part to get a proper reading.
- Rest the meat: Let thighs sit for a few minutes post-grill to allow juices to settle.
Flavor Boosting Marinades and Rubs
Here are some marinade and rub suggestions:
Citrus-Garlic Marinade
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Crushed garlic
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Simple Dry Rub
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Brown sugar
Tip: Marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Prep the Chicken: Trim any visible fat or excess skin. If the thighs are uneven, lightly pound them for consistent thickness.
- Marinate (Optional): In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices like paprika and oregano. Add the thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high (400–450°F). Let it preheat for 10–15 minutes.
- Oil the Grates: Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to grease the grates and prevent sticking.
- Grill the Thighs: Place the chicken smooth side down. Grill for 6–8 minutes per side, turning once the meat slightly unsticks from the grate itself.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked through, the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices and make it delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these grilling mistakes:
- Grilling cold chicken: Always bring meat to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
- Skipping preheat: Cold grates can cause sticking and inconsistent results, preheating makes it easier.
- Overcrowding the grill: Leave space between pieces for air circulation and even cooking, or the meat will cook in an uneven manner.
- Using high heat only: While searing is important, extremely high heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks through.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store grilled thighs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, however this is not ideal.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out the meat.
FAQs
Q1: What's the final temperature of boneless chicken thighs?
Boneless chicken thighs should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), for food safety!
Q2: Can I grill boneless chicken thighs longer if I cook them at a lower temperature?
You can grill boneless chicken thighs on a lower temperature like 350°F (175°C); just remember this may take longer in range, such as 18 to 22 minutes total depending on thickness. This option does have a drawback of increasing your risk for burning sugary marinades (like teriyaki), but is not likely to have as crisp a sear. Whatever your cooking method, make sure you do achieve an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Q3: If my boneless chicken thighs are different thicknesses, how might this impact my grilling time?
If you are worried about any differences in the thickness of your chicken thighs, you could pound it down gently with a meat mallet to make them the correct/thicker thickness. Otherwise, start with the thicker cuts first, giving them a few minutes on the grill like 2-3, before adding the thinner cuts. You should use a meat thermometer to check each piece, treating them as separate items for monitoring doneness, but too simple is to make sure all pieces reach 165°F before removing from the grill.
Conclusion
Grilling boneless chicken thighs is mostly simple, with some simple techniques and estimated time and you'll have perfectly juicy and delicious grilled chicken every time. This guide will give you step-by-step techniques so you can put aside guessing and you will make great grilled chicken thighs every time. Grilling is all about technique and timing. Just follow the outline of the guide and avoid common mistakes and you will be grilling boneless chicken thighs like a professional. Happy grilling and enjoy.
