These grilled boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for any summer cookout! The marinade adds a tasty kick that makes every bite delicious.
I love how quick they are to prepare. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Plus, they’re great on a salad or in a sandwich—talk about versatility!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and packed with flavor, making them perfect for grilling. If you prefer, you can swap them for boneless chicken breasts, but they might be a bit drier.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to your marinade. If you’re out, melted butter or avocado oil can work as substitutes, though olive oil is my go-to for its health benefits.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. If you don’t have fresh cloves, garlic powder can work in a pinch — use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Spices (Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Chili Powder, Onion Powder, Oregano): These spices bring warmth and depth. You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste. Experiment with your favorite spices to create your signature blend!
Lemon Juice: This is optional but adds brightness. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice or a splash of vinegar could also enhance the flavor.
How Do I Marinade Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into the chicken. Here are a few steps to help you out:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Adjust spices according to taste.
- Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. I like to massage the marinade in for better coverage.
- Cover and refrigerate! At least an hour, but letting it sit overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
- Don’t forget to let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps to cook evenly.
Trust me, taking the time to marinate really pays off!
How to Make Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional for marinating)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you have time, letting the chicken marinate overnight will enhance the flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. Total time: around 1 hour and 25 minutes, including marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the flavorful mix. If you want an extra zing, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the chicken. Once done, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have time.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice sear on the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs on it. Grill for around 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and to have a lovely char on the outside. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
5. Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices to redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top to brighten up the dish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious grilled chicken thighs with your favorite sides. Grilled vegetables, fluffy rice, or a refreshing salad pair wonderfully. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely, but bone-in chicken thighs will require longer cooking time. Aim for about 10-12 minutes on each side, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices Listed?
No problem! You can substitute spices based on what you have. For instance, if you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work, or you can add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Feel free to experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for a different flavor profile!
Can I Use a Grill Pan Instead of an Outdoor Grill?
Yes, you can definitely use a grill pan! Simply preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat, and follow the same cooking instructions. Make sure to grease the pan lightly to prevent sticking, and you can achieve a similar grilled flavor.
How To Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm them gently in a skillet for the best texture. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist while reheating.
