Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and host a BBQ or two (or three, or four…). There’s nothing quite like the taste of grilled chicken thighs, smothered in your favorite sauce or marinade. In this article, we’re sharing 18 juicy grilled chicken thigh recipes that are sure to become summer staples.
From sweet and sticky honey garlic glazed thighs to spicy and savory Korean gochujang marinated ones, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of classic BBQ flavors or adventurous fusion dishes, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to serve up some seriously delicious eats.
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the smokiness of the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and garlic until well combined.
3. Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Grilled Chicken Thighs
Get ready to level up your grilling game with this addictive and spicy Korean-inspired recipe! Sweet, smoky, and fiery, these grilled chicken thighs are a perfect blend of East meets West flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove from marinade and grill chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
A bright and citrusy twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe pairs the richness of chicken thighs with the zesty flavors of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Grilled Chicken Thighs
Smoky Paprika Grilled Chicken Thighs: A flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the smokiness of paprika with a hint of sweetness from honey and a tangy zip from lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with the paprika mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush honey on both sides of the chicken and squeeze lemon juice over top.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this sweet and savory Teriyaki glazed chicken thighs recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying juicy and flavorful chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this easy-to-make Cajun spiced grilled chicken thighs recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard. The result is a flavorful, sticky, and tender dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, and paprika until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe
This refreshing twist on traditional grilled chicken thighs combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with a hint of Mediterranean flavor, making it perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ. This dish combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic for a deliciously savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
BBQ Sauce Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs
Transform your grilled chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika until smooth.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the BBQ glaze all over the chicken thighs.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your deliciously glazed grilled chicken thighs!
Jerk Seasoned Grilled Chicken Thighs
Add a Caribbean twist to your grilled chicken with this flavorful jerk seasoning recipe. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as a topping for salads or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with the jerk mixture.
4. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
6. Squeeze a sliver of lime juice over the top (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the smokiness of grilled chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Grilled Chicken Thighs
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic grilled chicken thigh recipe, smothered in a creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the peanut sauce on the grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon-rosemary mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this Argentine-inspired recipe, featuring a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Blend until coarsely chopped.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar and olive oil.
4. Add the vinegar mixture to the herb mixture and blend until well combined.
5. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
6. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Brush chimichurri sauce on chicken during last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with the bold flavors of sesame and ginger. This recipe yields juicy, savory, and aromatic chicken thighs perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup toasted white sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the sesame-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of each thigh.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Buffalo Style Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilling game with this bold and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo wings with juicy chicken thighs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter until smooth.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Pineapple Soy Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and savory dish that combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Perfect for a summer BBQ or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, honey, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and elevate your summer BBQ game with these mouthwatering grilled chicken thigh recipes. From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, we’ve got 18 delicious options to try! Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs are a classic, while Spicy Korean Gochujang Grilled Chicken Thighs add an exciting twist. Try Lemon Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs for a bright and refreshing flavor or Smoky Paprika Grilled Chicken Thighs for a smoky kick. And many more! With these recipes, you’ll never get bored with the same old grilled chicken again.
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