5 Easy Steps to Get a Tasty Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

Do you know when the smoky aroma wafting from your grill, tender chicken thighs sizzling to juicy perfection. Whether it’s a family barbecue or a quiet dinner at home, well-grilled chicken thighs can make the meal unforgettable. But achieving that ideal balance of flavor, juiciness, and doneness requires a bit of know-how. Bone-in and boneless chicken thighs grill differently, and understanding those differences can transform your cooking game. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about grilling chicken thighs — from cooking times to techniques and tips. By the end, you’ll be ready to wow with perfectly grilled chicken every time.

Understanding Chicken Thigh Types: Bone-In vs. Boneless

When grilling chicken, your choice of cut affects everything from flavor to cooking time. Let’s take a look at the key differences between bone-in and boneless chicken thighs so you can decide which works best for your next meal.

Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs retain the bone, which means they take slightly longer to cook but offer a deeper, richer flavor. The bone conducts heat differently, which can affect cooking time and texture, adding a juiciness and succulence that’s harder to achieve with boneless cuts. The thicker portion near the bone needs more time on the grill, but for those who appreciate more flavor in each bite, it’s well worth the wait.

Boneless Chicken Thighs

Boneless chicken thighs are quicker to cook and more versatile for marinades. Their even thickness makes them great for high-heat grilling, and they’re convenient for quicker meals without sacrificing flavor. Boneless thighs absorb marinades well, so they’re ideal if you’re looking to add a burst of flavors like garlic, lemon, or spicy rubs. Just be mindful of cooking time, as they can overcook more easily due to their thinner size.

How Long it Takes for Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs to Cook: Basic Grilling Times

To get perfectly cooked chicken thighs, timing is everything. The cooking time for bone-in vs. boneless thighs varies significantly because of the bone and thickness. Here’s a breakdown of general grilling times based on type.

Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs

• Recommended Grill Temperature: Medium heat (about 350-400°F).
• Cooking Time: Typically takes about 25-30 minutes.
  • Grill the chicken skin-side down to start, then flip every 5-7 minutes.
• Direct vs. Indirect Heat for Bone-In Thighs:
  • Start with indirect heat for more even cooking, especially since bone-in cuts can burn quickly over high heat.
• Internal Temperature Check: The chicken should reach 165°F in the thickest part without touching the bone to ensure it’s safe and juicy.

Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

• Recommended Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat (about 400-450°F).
• Cooking Time: Cooks much faster than bone-in, typically around 15-20 minutes.
  • Flip every 3-4 minutes to sear each side evenly.
• Direct Heat Cooking for Quick Sear: Boneless thighs handle direct heat well, which can result in a nice char without overcooking.
• Internal Temperature Check: Remove from the grill once the internal temperature reaches 165°F to avoid drying out the meat.

Prepping Chicken Thighs for the Grill

Preparation is key to achieving juicy, flavorful grilled chicken. The way you season or marinate your chicken, as well as how you handle the grill, impacts the final result.

Seasoning and Marinades

Both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs can benefit from a good marinade or rub. Here’s how to get the most out of each type:

• Marinating Tips for Maximum Flavor:
  • Marinate your chicken thighs for at least 1-4 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop. For more intense flavor, you can even leave them overnight.
  • Popular marinades include lemon herb, spicy garlic, and honey mustard, which add both flavor and moisture to the meat.
• Dry Rubs for a Crispier Skin: Dry rubs are particularly great for bone-in thighs if you prefer a crispy skin.
  • A simple rub of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder works wonders for bone-in chicken, while boneless thighs pair well with simpler seasonings for a quick, flavorful sear.

Oil the Grill Grates

Before placing your chicken on the grill, be sure to oil the grates lightly. This helps prevent sticking and enhances the overall flavor. Olive or vegetable oil are good choices here, adding a bit of richness while ensuring the chicken doesn’t cling to the grill surface.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions for Perfectly Cooked Thighs

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for grilling both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs. Follow these instructions to bring out the best in each type.

Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs

1. Preheat the Grill to Medium Heat (350-400°F): This temperature allows the chicken to cook through without burning.
2. Set Up for Indirect Heat Cooking if you’re using a charcoal grill. This means arranging the coals to one side and cooking the chicken on the opposite side.
3. Place Thighs on Grill, Skin Side Down for the initial crispiness.
4. Flip Every 5-7 Minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This flipping ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
5. Rest Before Serving: Once removed from the grill, allow the thighs to rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in.

Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

1. Preheat Grill to Medium-High Heat (400-450°F): Higher heat is better for quick searing.
2. Place Thighs Directly Over Heat: Boneless thighs do well over direct heat, which sears them quickly.
3. Flip Every 3-4 Minutes to get even sear marks and cook the meat evenly.
4. Remove at 165°F: As soon as they reach this temperature, take them off the grill to avoid overcooking.
5. Let Rest Briefly: Rest for a couple of minutes before cutting to retain moisture.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

Mastering chicken thighs on the grill can come down to a few extra tips. Here are some helpful tricks to ensure your grilled chicken is always a hit.

• Managing Flare-Ups: Keep a spray bottle of water on hand to control flare-ups caused by fat drippings.
• Keeping Meat Moist: Avoid pressing down on the chicken, as this can push out precious juices. Covering the grill with a lid can also help maintain consistent heat and moisture.
• Testing for Doneness: The best way to ensure doneness is to use a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, make a small cut to check if the juices run clear.

Recipe Tables

Here’s a quick guide to preparing both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs with simple ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I marinate boneless chicken thighs for grilling?

Marinating chicken thighs for grilling between 1 to 4 hours allows the flavors to soak in, giving a richer taste. Be careful not to over-marinate, especially if using an acidic base, as this can break down the meat’s texture.

Can I grill frozen chicken thighs?

It’s best to thaw chicken thighs fully before grilling to ensure they cook evenly. Grilling frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking, which might leave you with overcooked exteriors and raw insides.

How can I keep grilled boneless chicken thighs juicy?

To keep boneless chicken thighs juicy, avoid overcooking and use marinades that add moisture. You can also baste the chicken during grilling to retain moisture.

What temperature should the grill be for chicken thighs?

Set your grill to medium heat (350-400°F) for bone-in thighs and medium-high (400-450°F) for boneless thighs to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Grilling Boneless chicken thighs, doesn’t have to be tricky. By understanding the differences in cooking methods, times, and temperatures, you’re well on your way to perfecting this classic barbecue staple. With the right preparation, technique, and a few easy tips, you’ll soon be enjoying juicy, flavorful chicken that’s cooked to perfection.

Ready to fire up the grill? Try these techniques and see the difference yourself. Share this guide with friends and family who love grilling, and let’s make every barbecue season delicious. Happy grilling!