Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This grilled chicken thighs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's so easy even beginner cooks can master it. Forget complicated techniques and long prep times; this recipe delivers juicy, perfectly charred chicken thighs every time. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and surprisingly simple. This recipe is a staple in my kitchen for its ease and deliciousness – I think it will quickly become one of your favorites too!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely on the grill. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Simply place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the spice mixture over them, and toss to coat evenly. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating will significantly enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Avoid moving the chicken too frequently to allow for nice grill marks to develop.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken, adding a bright and zesty touch.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Leave some space between the chicken thighs for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs and the heat of your grill.
- Brining: For extra juicy chicken, consider brining the chicken thighs for a few hours before grilling.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Chicken: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Citrus Chicken: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the marinade for a bright citrus flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for grilled chicken thighs is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!