Do I have to marinate chicken thighs before grilling?

You don't have to, but it does boost the flavor and tenderness of your chicken so it's highly recommended! This marinade is so simple and easy, which is why it's my go-to marinade for chicken. You probably have everything you need to make it already in your pantry.

How long does it take to grill chicken thighs?

This is the #1 most common question when it comes to how to grill bone-in chicken thighs. The grilling time will vary slightly based on chicken thigh size and grill temperature. A rough estimate is about 20-25 minutes, but again, it will vary. The best way to ensure your chicken is grilled perfectly is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. I wouldn't grill without it; it's the only way to cook meat properly.

What temperature do you cook chicken thighs to?

So this is interesting and something I learned while researching grilled chicken. While most chicken breast recipes are cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, we're actually cooking thighs and dark meat to 185 degrees F. This allows the higher fat and collagen content in thighs to "baste" the white meat, which makes it super juicy, tender, and flavorful. I'm a convert, and you will be too!

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great with this marinade. They'll cook faster than bone-in thighs - typically 12–16 minutes total - so keep a close eye on the internal temperature. You won't get the same crispy skin, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs (Easy Marinade & Perfect Every Time)

Name: Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cloves garlic; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 3 Tbsp. olive oil; 2 Tbsp. honey; 1 tsp. red pepper flakes; 4 bone-in chicken thighs (~ 2 lbs.)

Description

These juicy grilled chicken thighs use a 5-ingredient marinade and a foolproof two-zone grill method for crispy skin and tender meat every time.

Ingredients

Units Scale

4 cloves garlic
1/3 cup soy sauce
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. red pepper flakes
4 bone-in chicken thighs (~ 2 lbs.)

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, honey, and red pepper flakes. (You can also mix the marinade in a ziploc or stasher bag.)
Add chicken to bowl and marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight. Stir chicken or flip bag to distribute marinade occasionally.
Remove chicken from refrigerator to come to room temperature and preheat 2 burners on the grill to medium high, about 375 degrees F.
Grill on direct heat, skin side down for 6 minutes, flip and grill for another 6 minutes, then move to indirect heat and cover. Let cook until chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 180-185 degrees F. Thighs usually take about 20-25 minutes total, but it will really depend on the size and heat of your grill.
Let rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Storage: Leftover chicken thighs keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F or in a skillet over low heat to keep the skin from getting soggy.

Ingredients: For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce in equal amounts. Both deliver the same savory depth. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are strongly recommended for grilling – the bone keeps the meat juicy, and the skin crisps up beautifully, but boneless thighs can be used with adjusted cook time.

Prep ahead: This chicken is perfect for meal prep. Marinate the thighs overnight in the refrigerator (up to 24 hours) for the deepest flavor. Grilled thighs also reheat well throughout the week, making them great for quick weeknight lunches and dinners.

Tools: An instant-read meat thermometer is essential here – it’s the only reliable way to know when your thighs hit that magic 185°F. Don’t skip it.

Serve with: These thighs pair perfectly with napa cabbage slaw, creamy cucumber salad, summer tomato salad, black bean quinoa salad, grilled corn on the cob, or any simple green salad.