Discover delicious grilled chicken thigh recipes perfect for your summer cookouts. Learn how to make juicy, flavorful chicken with marinades and seasonings that your family will love
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10 Easy Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes for Summer
Summer is here, and the grill is calling. Grilled chicken thighs are the perfect choice for easy, delicious meals. They’re juicy and flavorful, making them a hit at any gathering. These 10 recipes will make your summer dinners a breeze and a delight.
Key Takeaways
- Grilled chicken thighs are budget-friendly, difficult to overcook, and result in tender, juicy meat.
- These recipes feature a variety of marinades and glazes to suit every palate, from citrus-infused to honey-garlic barbecue.
- Grilled chicken thighs pair beautifully with fresh summer produce and side dishes like slaw, pasta salads, and grilled bread.
- With quick prep times and easy grilling techniques, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and casual backyard gatherings.
- Consistent internal temperature and proper marinating times ensure optimal texture and flavor in every bite.
Why Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for Summer Grilling
Chicken thighs are the top pick for grilling this summer. They have more fat than breasts, which keeps them juicy and tasty. This makes them great for grilling because they stay moist, even when it’s hot.
Benefits of Choosing Chicken Thighs Over Breasts
- Chicken thighs are more tender and juicy due to their higher fat content.
- They are less prone to overcooking, ensuring a consistently moist and delicious result.
- Thighs are often more affordable than breasts, making them a budget-friendly option for summer grilling.
Temperature Guidelines for Perfect Results
To get perfect grilled chicken thigh recipes, watch the internal temperature. Use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh, away from bones. The temperature should hit 165°F. When you slice the thigh, the juices should be clear.
“Chicken thighs are an excellent choice for grilling due to their higher fat content, which keeps them moist and flavorful. They are more forgiving than breasts when it comes to cooking time.”
Essential Marinade Techniques for Juicy Chicken
Marinating chicken thighs is a game-changer for flavor and tenderness. A good chicken marinade can turn simple easy chicken recipes into a feast for the senses.
The secret to a great marinade is the right mix of ingredients. Use olive oil as the base to keep the meat moist. Add vinegar or citrus for tenderness. Sweetness from honey or brown sugar balances the acidity.
Herbs, spices, and garlic add depth to the marinade. Ingredients like Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and paprika are popular choices. Try different mixes to create your ideal chicken marinade.
Marinate chicken thighs for at least 1 hour but no more than 24 hours. This ensures the flavors soak in, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. Marinating too long can make the meat mushy.
“Marinating chicken thighs for at least one hour and up to 12 hours is recommended for a more pronounced flavor.”
After marinating, throw away the used marinade to avoid bacteria. Serve your grilled chicken thighs with sides like grilled veggies, salads, or rice. This makes for a complete and delicious meal.
The charm of easy chicken recipes is their flexibility. You can adjust the marinade to your liking or use it in various dishes. Dive into the world of marinating and enjoy tender, flavorful grilled chicken thighs this summer.
Citrus-Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs
Enjoy the taste of summer with our citrus-glazed grilled chicken thighs recipe. The mix of citrus juices, honey, and spices makes a tasty marinade. It gives the grilled chicken thigh recipes a bold, tangy-sweet flavor.
Preparing the Citrus Marinade
To make the perfect citrus marinade, mix fresh lemon, orange, and lime juices. Add a bit of honey or brown sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs or spices. Let the chicken marinade sit for 1-2 hours before grilling.
Grilling and Glazing Tips
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F.
- Put the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes per side, until it’s 165°F inside.
- Brush the chicken with the citrus marinade for the last 5 minutes. This makes a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Serve the citrus-glazed grilled chicken thighs hot. Add fresh citrus wedges for extra flavor.
This recipe is great for summer gatherings. It offers sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors in every bite. Pair it with grilled veggies or a summer salad for a full meal.
Mediterranean Style Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with these grilled chicken thigh recipes. Chicken thighs are perfect for summer grilling. They are tender and juicy, making them easy to cook.
Marinate the chicken for 2 to 4 hours to add bold, Mediterranean flavors. The marinade includes warm spices, garlic, onions, and citrus. This mix tenderizes the chicken and adds deep flavors.
Boneless chicken thighs grill in 7 to 10 minutes. Bone-in thighs take 15 to 25 minutes. They should reach 165°F for safety.
Enjoy your chicken with a Dill Greek Yogurt Sauce. It’s made with garlic, fresh dill, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Serve it with roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a full meal.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 271.1 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 7.4g |
| Protein | 26g |
| Fat | 15.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.7g |
| Cholesterol | 108.9mg |
| Sodium | 263mg |
| Fiber | 1.4g |
| Vitamin A | 552.9IU |
| Vitamin C | 22.9mg |
| Calcium | 77.9mg |
| Iron | 1.7mg |
These grilled chicken thigh recipes and easy chicken recipes are perfect for any meal. They offer bold Mediterranean flavors and tender, juicy chicken. They’re great for a quick weeknight dinner or a BBQ to impress.
Honey-Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready to indulge in the delectable flavors of honey-garlic bbq chicken thighs! This recipe combines the sweet notes of honey with the savory punch of garlic. It creates a mouthwatering marinade that transforms your chicken thighs into a grilling masterpiece.
Making the Perfect BBQ Sauce
The secret to this dish lies in the homemade bbq sauce. Start by whisking together honey, garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of spices. This tangy, sweet, and aromatic sauce is the perfect companion for the juicy chicken thighs.
Grilling and Basting Methods
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Marinate the chicken thighs in a portion of the bbq sauce, reserving the rest for basting. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last 5-10 minutes, baste the chicken liberally with the remaining sauce, creating a sticky, caramelized exterior.
The key to perfectly grilled bbq chicken is to baste frequently during the final stages of cooking. This ensures the sauce clings to the chicken, infusing it with irresistible flavor.
Once the grilled chicken thighs are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bite every time.
Serve these honey-garlic bbq chicken thighs alongside your favorite summer sides for a truly delightful grilling experience. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will have your taste buds singing!
Spicy Mango-Glazed Grilled Thighs
Get ready for a flavor journey with our spicy mango-glazed grilled chicken thighs. This dish is a mix of sweet and spicy, making it a hit for your taste buds.
To make the marinade, mix 2 ripe mangos, 3 garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of ginger. Add 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Marinate the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this mix for 2 to 8 hours in the fridge.
When it’s time to grill, put the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until it hits 165°F. Brush the chicken with the leftover mango marinade for the last few minutes. This will make a tasty glaze.
“The sweet, tangy, and spicy mango glaze is irresistible. The chicken stays juicy and tender, making this dish a summer grilling hit.”
Serving these spicy mango-glazed grilled chicken thighs will wow your guests. With 613 calories, 14g carbs, 37g protein, and 44g fat per serving, it’s full of flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re having a backyard BBQ or just want a tasty summer meal, these grilled chicken thigh recipes with a mango chicken marinade will impress. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors in every bite!
Classic Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes
Grilled chicken thighs are a summer favorite. They are juicy and full of flavor, with just a little effort. The key to great chicken thigh recipes is in the seasonings and how you grill them.
Basic Seasoning Combinations
A simple chicken dry rub mix is salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for more flavor. Make sure to coat the chicken thighs evenly on all sides.
Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions
- Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400-450°F.
- Put the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Flip the chicken and grill for another 5-7 minutes. Make sure the inside reaches 165°F.
- Take the grilled chicken thigh recipes off the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
Follow these easy steps to make delicious chicken dry rub and grilled chicken thigh recipes. They’re great for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Asian-Inspired Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Craving Asian flavors? Try these grilled chicken thigh recipes with a tasty teriyaki twist. Chicken thighs are great for this dish. They’re juicy and flavorful, perfect with the sweet teriyaki marinade.
To make the marinade, mix soy sauce, mirin (Japanese rice wine), sake, brown sugar, and ginger. Let the chicken soak in it for 2 hours or overnight. This lets the flavors really sink in.
When grilling, save some marinade to brush the chicken. It adds a shiny look and more flavor. For a special touch, serve with grilled pineapple. The sweet and tangy fruit goes well with the savory teriyaki.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | 5 pieces (about 19 ounces or 550 grams) |
| Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Mirin (Japanese Rice Wine) | 3 tablespoons |
| Sake | 3 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tablespoon |
With these chicken marinade ingredients and some grilling tips, you can make a dish that wows everyone. Enjoy the rich, umami flavors of this Asian-inspired dish!
“The teriyaki chicken thighs were a huge hit at our backyard barbecue. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors was simply irresistible.”
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken thighs are the star of summer. They deserve delicious side dishes to complete the meal. You can choose from vibrant summer vegetables, refreshing salads, and flavorful grains.
Summer Vegetable Pairings
Match your grilled chicken with the season’s best produce. Grill corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful plate. Roasting sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts adds nutrients.
Try sautéed green beans or a creamy asparagus casserole for a classic touch.
Salad and Grain Options
Lighten up with a refreshing salad. A Greek salad or grilled chicken Caesar salad are great choices. For something heartier, try quinoa salad, herbed couscous, or creamy tomato risotto.
Chipotle cilantro lime rice or sour cream rice also pair well.
Be creative with your side dishes. Fresh fruit salsas with mango, pineapple, or peach offer a sweet contrast. With so many options, you’ll find the perfect pairings for your summer grilling.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken thighs are perfect for summer. They offer a wide range of flavors with marinades, rubs, and glazes. They’re great for barbecues or quick dinners.
These grilled chicken thigh recipes are also great for chicken thigh meal prep. They’re juicy and full of flavor. They’re a must-have for summer.
Try out the different marinades, seasonings, and cooking methods from this article. Find your new favorite grilled chicken thigh recipes for a tasty summer meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of choosing chicken thighs over breasts for grilling?
Chicken thighs are easier to cook than breasts. They stay moist and flavorful because of their fat content. This makes them less likely to dry out while grilling.
How can I ensure my grilled chicken thighs are cooked properly?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F. Also, clear juices when sliced mean the chicken is cooked right.
What are the essential steps for marinating chicken thighs?
A good marinade has oil, acid, sweetness, and bold flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. But don’t marinate too long, as it can make the meat tough.
How can I create a citrus-glazed chicken thigh recipe?
Mix lemon, lime, and orange juices for a rich citrus flavor. Add honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Marinate for 1-2 hours, then glaze during the last few minutes for a caramelized finish.
What are some common ingredients in Mediterranean-inspired chicken thigh recipes?
Mediterranean recipes use olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and oregano. A Greek-style marinade with lemon, olive oil, garlic, and oregano is a great choice.
How can I make honey-garlic BBQ chicken thighs?
Create a BBQ sauce with honey, garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Marinate the chicken in some sauce, saving the rest for basting. Grill, basting often with the sauce for a sticky exterior.
What are some good side dish options to serve with grilled chicken thighs?
Serve with summer veggies like grilled corn, zucchini, or bell peppers. Try a Greek salad or grilled chicken Caesar salad. Quinoa salad, couscous, or brown rice are good grains. Mango, pineapple, or peach salsas also pair well with grilled chicken.