These easy homemade marinated grilled chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and super simple to make! With a tasty marinade that adds just the right zing, you’ll love every bite.
I always whip these up when I want a quick and delicious meal. Plus, they grill up in no time, leaving me more time to relax and enjoy a sunny day! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless thighs keep the meat tender and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and helps with marinating. You can swap it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you’re looking for a different taste or if olive oil isn’t on hand.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works well too.
Honey: It adds sweetness and balances the marinade. You can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big impact on flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder could be an alternative in a pinch, using about 1/2 teaspoon per clove.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with some attention, you’ll have great results! Here’s how to ensure your chicken thighs come out juicy and delicious:
- Marinate for the right time. Aim for at least 1 hour, but more time (up to 24 hours) will deepen the flavor.
- Preheat your grill well to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Don’t move the chicken around too much. Let it cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes, then flip. This helps achieve nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Target 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.
Easy Homemade Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (about 2.5 pounds)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus a minimum of 1 hour for marinating (but for the best flavor, aim for 4-6 hours or even overnight!). Cooking on the grill will take approximately 12-15 minutes. So overall, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, not including the marinating time if you do it in advance!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano. Mix until everything is well combined and the honey is dissolved into the liquid.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. For maximum flavor, let it sit for 4-6 hours or overnight!
3. Get Your Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade—it’s not safe to reuse. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and to look nicely charred.
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken thighs as you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious, juicy marinated grilled chicken thighs!
Happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. They might cook a bit faster, so be sure to check their internal temperature after about 5-6 minutes per side on the grill.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to marinate the chicken thighs for at least an hour before grilling to enhance the flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
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 in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
What are Some Good Sides to Serve With This Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, rice, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You could also enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich for leftovers!
