These grilled boneless skinless chicken thighs are super juicy and full of flavor! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun barbecue with friends.
You can whip them up in no time—just season, grill, and enjoy! I love serving them with a side of fresh veggies. They’re always a hit and never dry, so they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster during grilling. Thighs retain moisture better, making them a favorite for grilling.
Olive Oil: This is key for the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil instead—both have high smoke points and great flavors.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add depth to the marinade. If you don’t have these powders, you can use fresh minced garlic and onion. Just remember to adjust the amount since fresh is stronger.
Herbs and Spices: I love smoked paprika for its flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works in a pinch, but you’ll miss that smoky taste. Thyme and oregano can be fresh or dried; fresh herbs add vibrancy!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, for those who like heat. You can leave it out or use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a similar kick.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Grilling?
Marinating chicken is a great way to enhance flavor. Letting it soak in the marinade allows spices to penetrate deeply, making every bite tasty. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer—up to 4 hours—yields even better results!
- In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Make sure to mix them well.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss until they are fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag.
- Place in the refrigerator to marinate; the longer, the better for flavor absorption.
How to Make Grilled Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes a total of about 40 minutes, including 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. If you have extra time, marinating for 2-4 hours will give you even more flavor! The grilling part takes around 15-20 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This mixture is your marinade, and it will add lots of delicious flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently until they’re coated evenly. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, let it sit for 2-4 hours if you can!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help get a nice sear on the chicken when you put it on.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, allowing any extra marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then, carefully flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes on the other side. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C); that’s the safe temperature for chicken!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This lets the juices settle and makes it extra juicy when you cut into it. If you like, you can garnish with fresh thyme to add a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out easier, so be sure to monitor their cooking time closely. Grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can use another type of oil like vegetable oil or avocado oil for a similar flavor. For an extra kick, try using sesame oil, but remember it has a stronger flavor, so you may want to use a bit less.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat on the grill for that fresh taste!
