Description

This Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty mix of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and aromatic spices. Perfect for summer grilling, these chicken thighs come out beautifully charred on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them an easy and healthy main course that pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade. Toss or shake gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 to 4 hours to maximize flavor absorption.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, preparing it for direct grilling. This temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect char without overcooking.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade allowing excess to drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is nicely charred and caramelized.
Rest the Chicken: After grilling, transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps lock in the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent.

Notes

You can substitute the outdoor grill with a grill pan on the stovetop or use the broil setting in your oven if a grill is unavailable.
Serve the grilled chicken thighs alongside steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
For an extra smoky flavor and a mild heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade before cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired