Grilled Chicken Thighs

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Grilled Chicken Thighs: Your New Favorite Family Dinner Idea

Grilled Chicken Thighs stand as a cornerstone of comfort food, offering a perfect blend of juicy meat, a hint of smokiness, and the harmonious flavors of garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

This dish not only promises a delightful burst of flavors but also the joy of a meal that brings everyone together.

Whether you’re aiming to impress at a holiday dinner or searching for a quick weeknight meal, these chicken thighs served alongside your preferred sides will undoubtedly secure a spot in your culinary rotation.

Why Grilled Chicken Thighs Are a Must-Try

Grilled Chicken Thighs excel as the pinnacle of comfort food, adaptable and ideal for any meal plan, from busy weeknights to festive holiday feasts.

• Homemade Goodness: Marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and herbs, then grilled to perfection, these chicken thighs encapsulate the essence of homemade barbecue.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Suitable for everything from a simple family meal to dinner for two, or even a dinner party, these chicken thighs are versatile enough to cater to any event, ensuring leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
• Healthful and Hearty: Thanks to ingredients like chicken thighs and a bevy of herbs, this dish strikes a balance between rich flavors and nutritional benefits, serving as a wholesome option for family meals.

Barbecue Chicken Thighs Ingredients

• Bone-In Chicken Thighs: The main ingredient, offering juicy, flavorful meat with a richer taste due to the bone.
• Olive Oil: Provides moisture and helps the seasoning stick to the chicken, ensuring a crispy exterior.
• Garlic: Minced garlic to infuse the meat with a robust flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness to the marinade.
• Soy Sauce: For depth and umami.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor to the chicken.
• Dried Thyme, Rosemary, and Oregano: These herbs complement the smoky and savory notes.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Adds a slight heat and enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions for Grilling Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Marinating the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the bone-in chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Grilling the Chicken

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F (177°C to 204°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed for consistent heat.
2. Prepare for Grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. If desired, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling to ensure more even cooking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 10-15 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 15-20 minutes on the other side, or until the chicken is cooked through. The total cooking time should be around 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs and the exact heat of your grill.
4. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.

Resting and Serving

1. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful.
2. Serve: Serve your grilled bone-in chicken thighs hot off the grill with your favorite sides, garnishes, or sauces.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled bone-in chicken thighs, bursting with flavor and cooked to tender perfection!

Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs

• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken thighs overnight in the fridge.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding chicken to prevent sticking and achieve perfect grill marks.
• Check Internal Temperature: Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
• Rest Before Serving: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices for a moister bite.
• Skin Side Down First: Start grilling skin side down to crisp up the skin.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Cool the chicken thighs to room temperature and store in an airtight container. They’ll last 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Reheating: Warm them in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, ensuring they’re heated through.

What to Serve with Smoky Chicken Thighs

Grilled chicken thighs are a versatile main dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides.

• Salad: A simple Garden Salad or a Greek Chickpea Salad complement the smokiness of the chicken. For something heartier, opt for a Grilled Corn Salad.
• Potatoes: Choose between a classic Potato Salad for picnics or Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a creamy side.
• Rice: Cilantro Lemon Rice or Spicy Fried Rice offers a zesty, refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
• Pasta: For a pasta option, Lemon Butter Pasta or White Wine Pasta add a luxurious touch, while a Pasta Salad keeps things light and easy.
• Veggies: Roasted Carrots or a simple Coleslaw provide a crunchy, healthy addition. A Tomato Mozzarella Salad brings freshness, and a Vegetable Stir-Fry offers a versatile veggie boost.

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