– **Title**: Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
– **Ingredients**:
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they’re hot and covered with ash.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your grilled boneless chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These provide juicy flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work, but they might dry out faster on the grill. Thighs are my go-to for grilling due to their tenderness.
Olive Oil: This helps the marinade stick to the chicken. For a different taste, you might try avocado oil or canola oil which has a neutral flavor.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami to the dish. If you’re avoiding soy, use coconut aminos for a gluten-free and soy-free option. I find it just as delicious!
Honey: It gives a touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup could work too, but use them in similar amounts for the right balance.
Spices (Paprika, Cumin, Salt, Pepper): These spices create depth. Feel free to mix it up! Smoked paprika can add a lovely smoky flavor, and cayenne pepper can give a kick if you like heat.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs can be so rewarding, and there are a few tricks to get it just right! Here’s how:
- Make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high. This ensures the chicken sears nicely and reduces sticking.
- Oil the grill grates lightly before placing the chicken on them. This helps prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This helps form a nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Check for 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
How to Make Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, with an additional marinating time of at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours if you have the time). Cooking on the grill will take about 12-14 minutes. So, in total, you can expect around 40-50 minutes to enjoy some delicious grilled chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Begin by grabbing a large bowl. In it, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be your flavorful marinade that will give the chicken great taste.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands (or a spatula) to make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up those tasty flavors; if you have more time, letting them marinate for up to 4 hours will make them even better!
3. Prepare and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. After marinating, take the chicken thighs out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Now, place the chicken on the grill over direct heat. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they look nicely charred.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting step is important to keep the juices in. After resting, slice the chicken, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful grilled boneless chicken thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken breasts for thighs! Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so check the internal temperature after about 5-6 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.
What If I’m Out of Soy Sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a lower-sodium alternative. Just adjust the salt in your recipe since these alternatives may vary in saltiness.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just ensure it’s covered well to prevent any cross-contamination. Enjoy the extra taste boost!
