10 Best Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes for Summer

Summer is here, and the smell of grilled chicken thighs is calling. This collection of 10 recipes will take you on a flavorful journey. You’ll find everything from citrus marinades to robust barbecue rubs. These dishes will make your taste buds dance and impress your friends at your next BBQ.

Explore a world of summer flavors with these recipes. They use fresh produce, herbs, and spices from all over. Whether you need a quick dinner or a special dish for your guests, these recipes have you covered. Get ready to enjoy the juicy taste of grilled chicken thighs.

Ultimate Guide to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilling chicken thighs to juicy perfection is an art form. With the right techniques, you can master it. Whether you prefer boneless or bone-in cuts, the keys to success are proper preparation, temperature control, and precise timing.

The Secret to Juicy Chicken Thighs

The secret to achieving moist, flavorful grilled chicken thighs lies in using an instant-read thermometer. This handy tool ensures you cook the meat to the optimal internal temperature of 165°F. This locks in the natural juices and prevents overcooking.

Preparing Your Grill for Success

Before firing up the grill, clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them. This simple step prevents the chicken from sticking. It makes all the difference in achieving beautifully seared chicken thighs with an appetizing char.

Temperature and Timing Guide

Grilling boneless, skinless chicken thighs typically requires 7-10 minutes per side on a medium-high heat grill. For bone-in thighs, plan for 9-15 minutes per side. Always use your trusty instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F before removing the chicken from the grill.

With these essential techniques in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to serving up the baked chicken thighs, chicken rub, and other healthy chicken recipes. Your friends and family will be absolutely thrilled.

“Grilling chicken thighs is one of the simplest methods to cook them—delivering a delicious charred flavor without the need to heat up the oven.”

Classic Honey-Lemon Grilled Chicken Thighs with Potatoes

Get ready to enjoy the perfect mix of easy grilled chicken and soft potatoes in a zesty honey-lemon sauce. This recipe is great for chicken thigh meal prep. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy for a weeknight dinner.

The key to this dish lies in selecting the perfect ingredients. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are used for their juiciness. You’ll need 3 lbs of these to feed everyone.

Alongside the chicken, 2 lbs of baby Yukon Gold potatoes are halved. This lets them soak up the lemon-herb sauce.

The sauce is a mix of tangy lemons, olive oil, and herbs. Fresh rosemary, dried oregano, and smoked paprika add depth. A quarter cup of honey balances the flavors.

To cook, the chicken and potatoes are baked at 400°F for 60 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and the skin get golden. A quick broil of 3-5 minutes crisps the chicken skin. Make sure the chicken is 165°F with a meat thermometer.

Serving this classic honey-lemon grilled chicken thighs with potatoes on arugula adds a nice contrast. It’s a complete and tasty meal. This recipe will quickly become a favorite for easy grilled chicken and chicken thigh meal prep.

Mediterranean-Style Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes

Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with these juicy, grilled chicken thigh recipes. Learn about the key herbs and spices of the region. Also, find out the best marinades to give your chicken a Mediterranean taste.

Essential Mediterranean Herbs and Spices

To get the Mediterranean taste right, use these ingredients in your chicken recipes:

• Oregano: Earthy, slightly peppery, and quintessentially Mediterranean
• Garlic: A fragrant and indispensable flavor in many Mediterranean dishes
• Lemon: Bright, zesty, and a perfect complement to grilled chicken
• Cumin: Warm, earthy, and adds depth to marinades and rubs
• Paprika: Sweet, smoky, and lends a vibrant color to chicken
• Thyme: Herbaceous and pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean flavors

Best Marinades for Mediterranean Flavors

Make your grilled chicken thighs taste amazing with these marinades:

1. Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme for a classic Mediterranean flavor profile.
2. Yogurt-Herb Marinade: Combine plain Greek yogurt with minced garlic, dill, parsley, and a touch of lemon juice for a creamy, tangy marinade.
3. Olive and Herb Marinade: Blend extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, and basil for a robust, Italian-inspired marinade.

To achieve the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. Or up to 4 hours before grilling. This ensures the meat is full of Mediterranean flavors.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these grilled chicken thigh recipes. Use the right herbs, spices, and marinades. You’ll create a delicious and healthy meal that captures the essence of this sun-drenched cuisine.

Spicy Mango-Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs

Looking for a delicious barbecue chicken dish for summer? Our Spicy Mango-Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs are perfect. They have a homemade sauce that mixes sweet mango with spicy kick. This glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

The marinade is the secret to this recipe. We use boneless, skinless barbecue chicken thighs marinated in lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and Sriracha. It tenderizes the meat and adds sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

To make the mango glaze, we blend fresh spicy grilled chicken (or defrosted mango) with canola oil, garlic, and salt. This creates a vibrant sauce that caramelizes when brushed on the chicken.

For perfectly grilled chicken thighs, cook them over medium-high heat. Turn them occasionally until they reach 165°F. Brush with mango glaze in the last 5-10 minutes for a sticky finish.

Serve the barbecue chicken thighs hot, garnished with cilantro and grilled lime wedges. Pair them with summer sides for a complete meal. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors in every bite!

This spicy grilled chicken dish is stunning and delicious. The mix of sweet mango, tangy lime, and spicy Sriracha is impressive. Fire up the grill for a summer feast like no other!

Key West-Inspired Citrus Grilled Chicken Thighs

Escape to the tropics with this vibrant and flavorful Key West-inspired grilled chicken thigh recipe. The marinade, a blend of soy sauce, citrus juices, and honey, infuses the chicken with a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

Tropical Marinade Components

To create the perfect marinade for this dish, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse the chicken marinade.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Once your easy grilled chicken is ready, serve it garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced oranges for a vibrant, tropical touch. Pair it with a fresh mango salsa, grilled pineapple slices, or a light and tangy citrus slaw for a complete and satisfying meal.

Asian-Fusion Teriyaki Grilled Chicken with Pineapple

Start a flavorful journey with our Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs. This dish mixes the sweet teriyaki sauce with juicy grilled pineapple. It’s a perfect blend of tastes that will excite your senses.

To start, make a tasty teriyaki marinade. You’ll need soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Mix these together, then let your boneless, skinless chicken thighs soak for at least 30 minutes. Or let it rest for up to 4 hours for added tenderness.

When ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 35-40 minutes, turning them now and then. Cook until they’re done and reach 165°F. Grill pineapple rings too, until they’re caramelized.

To finish, place the grilled chicken thighs on a platter with the grilled pineapple. Drizzle any leftover teriyaki sauce on top. Serve with steamed brown rice and sautéed snow peas for a complete meal.

This Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thigh recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s a hit at BBQs or a quick dinner. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in every bite!

“This recipe is a game-changer! The flavors of the teriyaki marinade and grilled pineapple complement the chicken thighs so well. It has quickly become a new family favorite.” – Sarah, home cook

Smoky Caesar-Style Grilled Chicken Thighs

Make your summer grilling special with a twist on Caesar salad. Turn its flavors into smoky, char-grilled chicken thighs. This dish will wow your guests. Let’s dive into making the perfect Caesar-style grilled chicken thighs.

Caesar Marinade Ingredients

The secret to Caesar flavor is in the marinade. Mix together:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

This marinade makes the chicken rub tender and full of Caesar taste.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Char

To get the best char, heat your grill high. Brush the grates with oil to stop sticking. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s 165°F inside. Brush with marinade for extra flavor and color.

With this marinade and grilling, you get a tasty, chicken rub-flavored chicken thigh. It’s like a Caesar salad in chicken form. Serve it with a green salad or summer sides for a full meal.

Herb-Infused Verde Grilled Chicken Thighs

Take your grilling to the next level with these healthy chicken recipes. They use herb-infused verde sauce. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for grilling because they’re more forgiving and flavorful than breasts.

The secret to juicy, aromatic thighs is the chicken marinade. It’s a green goddess-style blend that adds a burst of herbal goodness to the meat.

To make the verde marinade, mix fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a bit of honey or agave. Blend the sauce until smooth using an immersion blender. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, for the best flavor.

Preheat your grill to 400°F before grilling. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grates, flipping them once during the 5-6 minute cooking time per side. Use a meat thermometer, like the ThermoWorks model, to check if the thighs are at 165°F for safety and juiciness.

The verde-style marinade adds herbaceous flavor and creates a beautiful, slightly charred exterior. Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for more spice. Serve these healthy chicken recipes with roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or your favorite summer sides for a complete meal.

For the best healthy chicken recipes, choose high-quality, air-chilled chicken. This ensures the meat sears well on the grill and keeps its juices and flavor. Enjoy these herb-infused verde grilled chicken thighs all season long!

Quick and Easy BBQ-Rubbed Grilled Chicken Thighs

Take your summer grilling to the next level with BBQ-Rubbed Grilled Chicken Thighs. Chicken thighs are affordable and versatile. They become juicy and tender when grilled right.

The homemade BBQ rub is the secret to these tasty chicken thighs. It’s made from common spices like paprika, chili powder, cumin, and garlic salt. The rub adds smoky, savory, and sweet flavors. A mix of lemon juice and olive oil helps the rub stick to the chicken, making every bite full of flavor.

Grilling chicken thighs is easy. Cook them over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Make sure they reach 165°F inside. Start with the skin-side down for a crispy char, then finish on indirect heat to cook through.

Enjoy these BBQ-Rubbed Grilled Chicken Thighs with classic BBQ sides. Try them with grilled corn, baked beans, or a fresh salad. The juicy chicken goes great with summer cookout favorites.

Conclusion

Exploring grilled chicken thigh recipes opens up a world of flavors for your summer BBQ. You can try classic honey-lemon, Mediterranean, spicy mango-glazed, or Asian-fusion teriyaki. Each recipe offers something unique to please any taste.

To get juicy, flavorful chicken, focus on the marinade, temperature, and cooking time. Marinate the chicken overnight and cook it to 165°F (75°C). This way, your grilled chicken will be tasty and safe to eat.

Whether you’re a pro at grilling or just starting out, try new marinades, rubs, and techniques. Grilled chicken thighs are versatile, and this article has shown you many flavors to try. You’ll impress your guests with delicious, easy-to-make dishes at your summer BBQ.

FAQ

What are the essential techniques for grilling juicy, flavorful chicken thighs?

To grill juicy chicken thighs, use an instant-read thermometer. Clean and oil the grates first. Control the temperature and cooking times for both boneless and bone-in chicken thighs.

How can I meal prep the Classic Honey-Lemon Grilled Chicken Thighs with Potatoes dish?

Meal prep this dish by making it ahead and reheating it later. It’s easy and flavorful. The recipe offers tips for meal prep.

What are the essential herbs and spices used in Mediterranean-style grilled chicken thigh recipes?

Mediterranean recipes use oregano, garlic, and lemon. These herbs and spices are key. The guide shows how to make marinades that add these flavors to the chicken.

How do I balance the sweet and spicy flavors in the Spicy Mango-Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe?

To balance sweet and spicy, make a homemade barbecue sauce. Baste the chicken while grilling to enhance flavor.

What techniques are used to achieve the perfect char on the Smoky Caesar-Style Grilled Chicken Thighs?

For a smoky char, use specific grilling techniques. The Caesar marinade adds a golden color to the chicken.

How can I adjust the spice level in the Herb-Infused Verde Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe?

Adjust the verde sauce’s spice to your liking. Keep the herb blend’s flavor in the chicken.

How do I adapt the Quick and Easy BBQ-Rubbed Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe for both boneless and bone-in chicken thighs?

Adapt the BBQ rub and grilling for both cuts. This recipe is flexible for your preference.