Description
Learn how to grill chicken thighs on a gas grill for juicy, flavorful chicken with beautifully charred edges and crispy skin. This easy method is perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, and meal prep, delivering tender, smoky chicken every time.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasoning & Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Pat Dry: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- Make Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and lemon juice, mixing until well blended.
- Season Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (around 400–425°F or 200–220°C). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Sear Skin-Side Down: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down directly over the heat. Grill for 5–7 minutes until the skin becomes browned and develops a light char.
- Flip and Grill: Flip the chicken thighs and grill them for another 5 minutes on the other side.
- Indirect Cooking: Move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill away from direct heat. Close the grill lid and continue cooking for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are forgiving due to higher fat content, which helps keep them juicy during grilling.
- For extra crispy skin, finish the chicken over direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side after indirect cooking.
- Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat for doneness.
- Boneless chicken thighs cook faster, typically in 12–18 minutes depending on size.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
