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If you’re craving a juicy and flavorful chicken dish, grilling boneless chicken thighs is the way to go. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also cook relatively quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. But how long should you cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill to ensure they’re cooked through without becoming dry?

The cooking time for boneless chicken thighs on the grill will depend on several factors, including the thickness of the meat, the heat of your grill, and personal preference. As a general rule, boneless chicken thighs should be grilled for about 6-8 minutes per side. However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which indicates that the chicken is cooked and safe to eat.

Grilling boneless chicken thighs requires a hot grill, as this helps to sear the meat and lock in the juices. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 6-8 minutes on one side, then flip the chicken and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the other side. Remember to always keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from burning.

If you prefer to add some flavor to your grilled chicken thighs, you can marinate them beforehand. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will not only infuse the meat with flavor but also help to keep it moist during cooking.

How to Cook Boneless Chicken Thighs on the Grill

Grilling boneless chicken thighs is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal. With the right preparation and grilling techniques, you can achieve tender and perfectly cooked chicken every time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill:

1. Start by marinating the chicken thighs. This will add extra moisture and flavor to the meat. You can marinate the chicken thighs in your favorite marinade or simply season them with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Let the chicken thighs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
3. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure proper browning.
4. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Close the lid and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), as this is the safe temperature for chicken.
5. While grilling, avoid constantly flipping the chicken thighs, as this can prevent them from developing a nice crust. Flip them only once to promote proper browning and caramelization.
6. Once the chicken thighs reach the desired internal temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender bite.
7. Serve the grilled boneless chicken thighs immediately with your favorite side dishes or slice them up to use in salads, sandwiches, or tacos. Enjoy!

Grilled boneless chicken thighs are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or added to a variety of dishes. With these simple steps, you can master the art of grilling chicken thighs and create a delicious meal for family and friends.

Preparing boneless chicken thighs

Before cooking boneless chicken thighs on the grill, there are a few steps you can take to ensure they are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection:

1. Trim excess fat: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. This will help prevent flare-ups on the grill.

2. Season with marinade or rub: To add flavor to the chicken thighs, consider marinating them for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Alternatively, you can use a dry rub to season the chicken thighs. Allow the flavors to penetrate the meat by refrigerating them for at least 1 hour.

3. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken thighs cook evenly and develop a nice char on the outside.

4. Oil the grill grates: Before placing the chicken thighs on the grill, oil the grates to prevent them from sticking. You can lightly brush the grates with vegetable or olive oil.

5. Grill the chicken thighs: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

6. Rest the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and ensure tender, juicy meat.

Following these steps will help you prepare delicious boneless chicken thighs on the grill. Enjoy!

Marinating chicken thighs for grilling

When it comes to grilling boneless chicken thighs, marinating them beforehand can be a great way to add flavor and tenderness to the meat. Marinating is the process of soaking the chicken thighs in a mixture of ingredients that help to enhance their taste and texture.

Here are some steps to marinate chicken thighs for grilling:

1. Choose a marinade: There are various marinades you can use, depending on your preference. Common marinade ingredients include olive oil, citrus juices, vinegar, soy sauce, spices, and herbs.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix together the ingredients for your chosen marinade. You can experiment with different combinations of flavors to create your own unique marinade.
3. Marinate the chicken thighs: Place the boneless chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight.
4. Flip the chicken thighs: If marinating for longer than 30 minutes, flip the chicken thighs halfway through the marinating time to ensure even flavor distribution.
5. Preheat the grill: While the chicken thighs are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the grill is hot enough to cook the chicken properly.
6. Remove the chicken from the marinade: Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
7. Grill the chicken thighs: Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.
8. Let the chicken thighs rest: Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moist and flavorsome chicken.

By marinating your boneless chicken thighs before grilling them, you can add an extra layer of flavor to your meal. Experiment with different marinades and enjoy delicious grilled chicken thighs!

Preheating the grill for chicken thighs

Before cooking your boneless chicken thighs on the grill, it is important to preheat the grill to ensure even and thoroughly cooked chicken. Preheating the grill allows for the chicken to cook more evenly and reduces the risk of undercooking or overcooking.

Here are some steps to properly preheat your grill:

1. Ensure that the grill is clean and free from any debris or leftover food. This helps to prevent any undesirable flavors and allows for better heat distribution.
2. Turn on the grill to medium-high heat. This temperature is ideal for cooking boneless chicken thighs.
3. Close the lid of the grill and let it preheat for approximately 10-15 minutes. This allows the grill grates to heat up and reach the desired temperature.

During the preheating process, take the time to prepare your boneless chicken thighs. Season them with your preferred spices or marinade for added flavor. You can also brush them with oil to prevent sticking and to achieve a nice char on the grill.

Once the grill is preheated and the chicken thighs are seasoned and ready, you can proceed to cook them on the grill according to your preferred cooking time and temperature. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a safe minimum of 165°F (74°C).

Preheating the grill is an essential step in cooking boneless chicken thighs on the grill, as it helps to ensure a flavorful and perfectly cooked meal. By following these preheating steps, you can enjoy juicy, tender, and delicious chicken thighs every time you grill.

Cooking boneless chicken thighs on the grill

Grilling boneless chicken thighs is a delicious way to enjoy a tasty and juicy piece of meat. Follow these simple steps to cook flavorful boneless chicken thighs on the grill:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the boneless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Make sure to turn them only once to achieve the perfect grill marks.
4. While grilling, baste the chicken thighs with your favorite barbecue sauce or glaze for added flavor. This step is optional but can enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.
5. Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
6. Serve the grilled boneless chicken thighs hot with your choice of sides, such as a salad, grilled vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Grilled boneless chicken thighs make for a versatile and delicious meal. Whether you enjoy them as a main course, in sandwiches, or in salads, you’re sure to love the smoky flavor and tender texture that grilling provides. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your perfect flavor combination!

Q&A

What temperature should the grill be set to when cooking boneless chicken thighs?

The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).

How long does it take to cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill?

The total cooking time for boneless chicken thighs on the grill is usually around 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat.

How do you know when boneless chicken thighs are done on the grill?

To ensure the chicken thighs are cooked thoroughly, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can boneless chicken thighs be marinated before grilling?

Yes, marinating the chicken thighs before grilling can enhance their flavor. You can marinate them for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

Are boneless chicken thighs better cooked on a gas grill or a charcoal grill?

Both gas and charcoal grills can produce delicious boneless chicken thighs. Gas grills provide precise temperature control, while charcoal grills add a smoky flavor. The choice depends on personal preference.

What is the best way to cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill?

The best way to cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill is to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and then grill the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes per side. Make sure to marinate the thighs beforehand to add extra flavor.

Can I cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill without marinating them?

Yes, you can cook boneless chicken thighs on the grill without marinating them. However, marinating the chicken thighs beforehand helps to add extra flavor and tenderness to the meat. If you choose not to marinate, you can still achieve delicious results by seasoning the thighs with your preferred spices before grilling.