Grilling bone-in chicken thighs is a classic summer pastime. Nothing quite beats the juicy and succulent taste of grilled chicken with its crispy skin and authentic smoky flavor. However, cooking bone-in chicken thighs on the grill requires some mastery of time and temperature to ensure that they are cooked through but not over-charred.
If you’re wondering how long it takes to grill bone-in chicken thighs to perfection, then keep reading. In this article, we’ll explore the ideal grilling time and temperature for delicious and moist bone-in chicken thighs that will leave your taste buds salivating. With our simple guidelines, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!
Preparing the Chicken Thighs for the Grill
Grilling bone-in chicken thighs is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and juicy meal on hot summer days. However, preparing the chicken thighs before putting them on the grill is crucial to achieve the best results. The first step in preparing the chicken thighs is to remove any excess fat or skin. This helps to prevent flare-ups and ensures that the skin becomes crispy and golden brown when grilled.
Next, season the chicken thighs with your favorite spices and herbs. A simple marinade made with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs such as thyme or rosemary can add a delicious flavor to the chicken thighs. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. Once the chicken thighs are prepared, it’s time to heat up the grill and start cooking.
Choosing the Right Temperature for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs
Choosing the right temperature is crucial when it comes to grilling bone-in chicken thighs. If the temperature is too high, the skin might get burnt while the insides remain undercooked. If the temperature is too low, the chicken might take longer to cook, leading to dry and tough meat. A good rule of thumb is to preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly, with a crispy skin and juicy meat.
It’s also important to know that the chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. To check the temperature, use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. Once the chicken has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly and result in a tender and succulent bite. With the right temperature, you can grill bone-in chicken thighs to perfection and impress your guests with delicious and juicy chicken.
Tips and Tricks for Grilling Bone-In Chicken Thighs to Perfection
Grilling bone-in chicken thighs can be a tricky task as they have a tendency to dry out quickly if not grilled right. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your bone-in chicken thighs turn out perfect every time. Firstly, it’s essential to season the chicken with a dry rub or marinade before grilling to keep the meat moist and add flavor. Secondly, preheat your grill on medium-high heat ensuring to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Next, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill, and don’t touch them for at least 5-6 minutes before flipping. Continuously basting the chicken with oil or sauce will help prevent drying out and also add to the flavor. Finally, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of your chicken, ensuring that it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165F. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve beautifully cooked, succulent, and flavorful bone-in chicken thighs every time you grill.
Checking for Correct Doneness: Tips and Tricks
Once you’ve grilled your bone-in chicken thighs for the appropriate amount of time, it’s important to check for correct doneness before serving. One easy way to do this is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check doneness by making a small incision into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the flesh should be white and opaque. If the juices are pink or the flesh is translucent, the chicken is not yet fully cooked and should be returned to the grill for a few more minutes. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your bone-in chicken thighs are safely and deliciously grilled to perfection.
Variations on Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs: The Seasoning Debate
When it comes to grilling bone-in chicken thighs, the seasoning debate is endless. Some people prefer their chicken thighs plain and simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper, while others like them heavily seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Regardless of your personal preference, there are plenty of seasoning options available to bring out the best flavor in your grilled chicken thighs.
Some popular seasoning choices for grilled bone-in chicken thighs include BBQ rubs, garlic and herb blends, lemon pepper, and Cajun seasonings. For a healthier option, you can go for a simple Greek-style marinade made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. It’s also important to keep in mind that marinating your chicken thighs before grilling can help infuse them with flavor and keep them moist and tender. Whichever seasoning you choose, make sure to apply it generously to both sides of the chicken thighs and allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
How to Serve Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs Perfectly
Once the bone-in chicken thighs are grilled perfectly, it’s time to serve them up to your guests or family. But how do you ensure they are served perfectly? Here are a few tips to help you serve grilled bone-in chicken thighs perfectly.
Firstly, serve them hot and immediately after grilling. This will ensure that the flavors and juiciness are at their best. Use a serving dish that can retain heat to keep the chicken warm throughout the meal. Secondly, garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro to enhance the flavors. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty flavor. For sides, grilled veggies or a crisp salad complement the chicken perfectly. Finally, sit back and enjoy the compliments from your guests as they enjoy your perfectly grilled bone-in chicken thighs.
Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs and Food Safety Guide
Grilling bone-in chicken thighs is a delicious and popular dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or an easy weeknight dinner. However, it’s important to keep in mind the necessary food safety guidelines when preparing and cooking chicken.
To ensure that the chicken is cooked safely, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s also important to avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw chicken separate from other foods and properly cleaning all surfaces and utensils after handling raw chicken.
Additionally, marinating chicken before grilling can add flavor but it’s important to marinate in the refrigerator and never reuse marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken. By following proper food safety guidelines and cooking the chicken to the recommended temperature, you can enjoy delicious grilled chicken thighs while also prioritizing the health and safety of yourself and your loved ones.
Conclusion
Grilling bone-in chicken thighs on the grill can be a bit of a tricky endeavor, but with the right approach and technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. While factors like the temperature of your grill and the size of your chicken thighs will affect cooking times, a general guideline of 30-40 minutes over indirect heat is a good place to start.
Whether you prefer dry rubs or marinades, make sure to season your chicken thighs well before grilling and monitor them as they cook to ensure they don’t dry out or burn. With a little bit of patience and careful attention, you’ll soon be able to master the art of grilling bone-in chicken thighs and enjoy delicious, smoky chicken all summer long.