When I think about summer gatherings, one dish stands out as an absolute favorite—grilled chicken thighs. There’s nothing quite like the sensation of juicy, smoky meat sizzling away on a grill, paired with refreshing sides that complete the meal.
Picture this: you’re at a backyard barbecue, the sun is shining, laughter fills the air, and you take a bite of perfectly grilled chicken, its flavors bursting in your mouth. It’s a magical moment that evokes memories of warmer seasons and good company.
But let me tell you something. Grilled chicken thighs are more than just a delicious protein option. They’re a blank canvas—one that can be combined with various dishes to make your summer meal unforgettable. How about serving them alongside an Italian Pasta Salad that features bright veggies, chickpeas, and a zesty homemade dressing? It would make the perfect companion, introducing a delightful crunch to the tender, smoky chicken. Trust me on this—they complement each other beautifully.
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What Are Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Grilled chicken thighs are simply seasoned pieces of chicken leg meat cooked over an open flame or grill. Unlike chicken breasts, which can become dry if overcooked, thighs are flavorful and juicy, thanks to their higher fat content.
This not only enhances their taste but also makes them more forgiving during the cooking process. The possibilities with flavors and marinades are virtually endless.
Ingredients
For a splendid grilled chicken thigh experience, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (slightly crushed)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
How to Make Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Let’s get started! The preparation of grilled chicken thighs is straightforward, but the flavors developed during marination are what truly elevate this dish. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, dried rosemary, minced garlic, and lemon pepper seasoning. Whisk them together until fully mixed. The aroma of the garlic and rosemary will tantalize your senses.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated well. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got time, let it marinate for a few hours or overnight. The longer, the better!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken absorbs all those incredible flavors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will create those beautiful grill marks and help seal in the juices.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Take the thighs out of the marinade and shake off any excess. Place them on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. Ideally, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite satisfying. Slice them and get ready to enjoy!
Notes
Here are some tips to ensure that your grilled chicken thighs turn out perfectly:
- Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: If you can, let your chicken marinate overnight to truly absorb the flavors.
- Use High Heat: A hot grill ensures that your chicken has a nice sear, locking in moisture.
- Don’t Flip Too Often: Allow the chicken to cook well on each side before flipping to achieve those coveted grill marks.
- Let it Rest: Patience pays off. Resting your chicken after grilling is essential for retaining juiciness.
- Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find what you love best.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days.
Reheat for a quick meal, or chop them up to add to salads or pasta. You can also wrap them in foil and freeze, where they’ll keep for up to three months. Just make sure to label them!
Nutrition Information
Each serving of grilled chicken thighs is packed with nutrients:
- Calories: Approximately 220
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
Wonderful fuel for your body, especially when paired with colorful sides like the Italian Pasta Salad!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some fantastic ways to serve your grilled chicken thighs:
- Over a Bed of Salad: Serve your grilled chicken over mixed greens, topped with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh meal.
- In a Wrap: Slice the chicken and wrap it in a whole grain tortilla with avocado, lettuce, and a spicy salsa for a tasty lunch.
- With a Grain Bowl: Pair with farro or quinoa, add in roasted veggies, and a dollop of hummus for a nutritious dinner.
- In Tacos: Shred the chicken and throw it in corn tortillas with cabbage slaw and pico de gallo for a fiesta on your plate.
- Laden with Sauce: Top your grilled thighs with a homemade barbecue sauce or chimichurri for an extra flavor punch.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Grilled Chicken Thighs?
If you don’t have the chicken thighs on hand, here are some substitutes:
- Chicken Breasts: A leaner option, but you’ll need to watch out not to overcook them.
- Drumsticks: Ideal for grilling and provide that same juiciness.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, marinate and grill firm tofu cubes. You’ll get a delicious smoky flavor!
- Portobello Mushrooms: These meaty mushrooms are fantastic when grilled and can absorb marinades beautifully.
- Pork Tenderloin: Marinate and grill pork tenderloin slices for a slightly different flavor profile but still delicious.
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, dried rosemary, minced garlic, and lemon pepper seasoning. Whisk them together until fully mixed. The aroma of the garlic and rosemary will tantalize your senses.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated well. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got time, let it marinate for a few hours or overnight. The longer, the better!
- While the chicken absorbs all those incredible flavors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will create those beautiful grill marks and help seal in the juices.
- Take the thighs out of the marinade and shake off any excess. Place them on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. Ideally, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite satisfying. Slice them and get ready to enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: If you can, let your chicken marinate overnight to truly absorb the flavors.
- Use High Heat: A hot grill ensures that your chicken has a nice sear, locking in moisture.
- Don’t Flip Too Often: Allow the chicken to cook well on each side before flipping to achieve those coveted grill marks.
- Let it Rest: Patience pays off. Resting your chicken after grilling is essential for retaining juiciness.
- Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find what you love best.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use skin-on chicken thighs?
Yes, you can! Skin-on thighs will provide extra flavor, but be mindful of the fat content. They’ll also need a bit longer cooking time to ensure the skin crisps nicely.
2. How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use a reliable meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While you can grill chicken without marinating, marinating greatly enhances the flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
4. What sides pair well with grilled chicken thighs?
Stuffed bell peppers, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, and, of course, pasta salad are all excellent choices!
5. Can I grill chicken thighs from frozen?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them beforehand for even cooking and better absorption of marinades.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken thighs are more than a meal—they’re an experience. The combination of smoky and juicy flavors will elevate any gathering. With the right marinade, you can take this humble piece of chicken and turn it into a crowd-pleaser that your friends and family will rave about.
And if you’re seeking something fresh to pair with this dish, I can’t recommend my Italian Pasta Salad enough. It’s vibrant, colorful, and bursting with flavors reminiscent of summer picnics. As you fire up the grill, think about all the possibilities that lie ahead. Embrace the grilling season; put on your apron and let the deliciousness unfold! Happy grilling!