Grilling chicken is a classic summer activity that never gets old. One of the most flavorful and versatile cuts of chicken is the thigh. TheyΓÇÖre easy to grill and have a juicy and tender texture that everyone loves. In this article, weΓÇÖll guide you through how to grill chicken thighs to perfection, so you can impress your guests with your grilling skills.
Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs
When buying chicken thighs for grilling, look for bone-in, skin-on thighs. The bone will help the meat cook more evenly, and the skin will help keep the meat moist and flavorful. Choose thighs that are similar in size, so they cook at the same rate.
Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Before grilling, it’s essential to prepare the chicken thighs. Start by rinsing the chicken under cold running water and patting them dry with paper towels. Next, season the chicken with your preferred seasoning blend. You can use a dry rub, marinade, or even just salt and pepper.
If youΓÇÖre using a marinade, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and add more depth to the flavor.
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400┬░F. Make sure to clean your grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Grilling the Chicken Thighs
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Allow them to cook for around 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and browned. Flip the thighs over and continue to grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165┬░F.
When grilling chicken thighs, itΓÇÖs crucial to avoid flipping them too frequently, as this can cause them to stick to the grill and lose their juices. Instead, flip them only once, and baste them with your preferred sauce or marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.
Letting the Chicken Thighs Rest
Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for around 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides, including grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh summer salad. You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or a flavorful chimichurri sauce.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken thighs on the grill is a simple and delicious way to elevate your grilling game. With a few simple steps, you can create perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken thighs that are sure to impress your guests. Remember to choose the right chicken thighs, prepare them well, preheat your grill, and avoid flipping them too frequently. With these tips, youΓÇÖll be grilling chicken thighs like a pro in no time.
