Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs

This juicy grilled boneless chicken thigh recipe has become my go-to solution for busy weeknights and weekend cookouts alike. The simple marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed meal that consistently earns rave reviews.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu summer barbecue. My guests were so impressed by the tender, flavorful results that it quickly became my signature dish for gatherings large and small.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken thighs: dark meat stays juicier than breast meat and offers more flavor
• Paprika: adds beautiful color and a subtle smoky sweetness
• Fresh minced garlic: provides essential aromatic foundation
• Chopped fresh parsley: brightens the flavor profile with herbal notes
• Olive oil: helps transfer flavors into the meat and prevents sticking
• Salt and pepper: the essential seasoning duo that enhances all other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the marinade:

Combine paprika, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt and pepper in a bowl and whisk until fully incorporated. The oil will help carry the flavors into the meat fibers for maximum taste impact.

Marinate the chicken:

Coat each chicken thigh thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring every surface is covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor development.

Preheat your grill:

Bring your grill to medium high heat approximately 375°F to 400°F. This temperature range is perfect for achieving those desirable grill marks while cooking the chicken through without burning.

Grill with precision:

Place chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Look for clear juices and an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure doneness while maintaining maximum juiciness.

Rest before serving:

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite remains moist and tender.

The secret to this recipe lies in the quality of your paprika. I discovered this when I switched from generic supermarket paprika to a Hungarian sweet paprika I found at a specialty store. The difference in flavor depth was remarkable, transforming an already good recipe into something truly memorable.

Marinating Magic

For everyday meals, a quick 30 minute marinade works perfectly fine. But when time permits, letting the chicken thighs marinate overnight creates a remarkable difference in flavor penetration. The acid in the olive oil and the salt work together to tenderize the meat while the aromatics infuse throughout. I often prepare a double batch of marinade on Sunday evenings so I can quickly throw together this meal midweek without any fuss.

Indoor Cooking Options

When outdoor grilling isn't possible, you can achieve excellent results using a cast iron grill pan on your stovetop. Heat the pan over medium high heat until quite hot, then reduce to medium before adding your chicken. Another fantastic option is using a panini press which cooks both sides simultaneously, reducing cooking time to about 8 minutes total. Both methods create similar grill marks and flavors to outdoor grilling.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile chicken thighs pair beautifully with Mediterranean inspired sides like tabbouleh, hummus, and warm pita bread. For a quick weeknight dinner, serve alongside a simple green salad and roasted potatoes. The leftovers make excellent meal prep components, perfect for slicing into salads, wrapping in tortillas with fresh vegetables, or chopping and adding to pasta dishes. My family particularly enjoys these thighs sliced and served with tzatziki sauce, fresh tomatoes, and cucumbers.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I marinate the chicken thighs?

You can marinate the chicken thighs for as little as 30 minutes for good flavor, but for the best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat and results in more tender, flavorful chicken.

→ How do I know when the chicken thighs are done cooking?

Boneless chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cook for about 5-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat, and check that the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part.

→ Can I cook these chicken thighs without a grill?

Yes! While grilling gives the best flavor, you can use a panini press or stovetop grill pan as indoor alternatives. You can also bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

→ What sides pair well with these grilled chicken thighs?

These chicken thighs are versatile and pair well with many sides. Try serving with rice, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or in wraps. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors also complement couscous, grilled vegetables, or a simple Greek salad.

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, though they tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily. If using breasts, consider reducing the grilling time to about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, and be careful not to overcook.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saving tip for meal prep or entertaining.