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Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled Chicken Thighs

This grilled chicken thighs recipe delivers juicy, tender, and flavorful meat with a simple, smoky marinade. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep, it balances rich spices with fresh lemon to create a versatile and delicious dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed to create a flavorful marinade base.
  2. Marinate the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour in the marinade. Ensure each piece is coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat Your Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat. It should be hot enough to sear the skin but not so hot that the chicken burns before cooking through.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Notes

  • Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicier meat and crispier skin.
  • Don’t skip resting the chicken after grilling to lock in moisture.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
  • Brush grill grates with oil before cooking to prevent sticking.
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes; up to 4 hours intensifies flavor without toughening.

Nutrition

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