These juicy grilled boneless skinless chicken thighs are marinated in simple seasonings, then cooked over the grill until perfectly tender and smoky. I love how quick this recipe comes together while still delivering a ton of flavor.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
I preheat my grill to medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, I mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
I coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade and let them rest for at least 15 minutes so they soak up all the flavor.
I place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
I remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 15 minutes to cook, and around 30 minutes total. Each serving is about 230 kcal, making it a lighter protein option that still feels satisfying.
Variations
I sometimes swap the smoked paprika for chili powder if I want more heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also work beautifully in the marinade. For a tangier flavor, I replace the lemon juice with lime juice. When I want a sweeter twist, I drizzle in a little honey or maple syrup to balance the spices.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I usually warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If I’m in a hurry, the microwave works fine too, but I cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the chicken moist.
FAQs
How do I keep chicken thighs juicy on the grill?
I make sure not to overcook them and always let them rest for a few minutes after grilling so the juices stay inside.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, I like to marinate them overnight sometimes. The longer marinating time makes the flavors even stronger.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
I can, but I prefer thighs since they stay juicier on the grill. If I use breasts, I watch them carefully to avoid drying out.
Do I need to oil the grill grates?
Yes, I lightly oil the grates before grilling so the chicken doesn’t stick and gets those nice grill marks.
Can I cook these in the oven instead?
Yes, I can bake them at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes or until they reach 165°F internally if I don’t feel like grilling.
Conclusion
Grilled boneless skinless chicken thighs are one of my go-to meals when I want something fast, flavorful, and healthy. With a simple marinade and quick cooking time, I can enjoy a delicious dinner any night of the week. Whether I’m meal-prepping or firing up the grill for guests, these chicken thighs never disappoint.
Recipe:
Print
Grilled Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy grilled boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, then grilled until tender, smoky, and flavorful. A quick and healthy protein-packed meal that works for weeknights or barbecues.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken thighs evenly with the marinade and let rest for at least 15 minutes.
- Place chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For more heat, substitute chili powder for smoked paprika.
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the marinade.
Lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
Add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet, oven, or microwave (covered with a damp paper towel).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
