Description
Learn how to grill chicken thighs on a gas grill for juicy, flavorful chicken with beautifully charred edges and crispy skin. This easy method is perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, and meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken thighs to ensure crisp skin during grilling.
- Prepare seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and lemon juice until well blended.
- Season the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh to fully coat them.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your gas grill to medium-high, approximately 400–425°F (200–220°C). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Start grilling skin-side down: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down over direct heat and grill for 5–7 minutes until the skin becomes browned and has a light char.
- Flip the chicken: Turn the thighs over and grill for another 5 minutes on the other side to develop even cooking and color.
- Move to indirect heat: Transfer the chicken to a cooler section of the grill, close the lid, and continue grilling for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest before serving: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for maximum moistness.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are forgiving on the grill due to higher fat content, which helps keep them juicy.
- For crispier skin, finish by grilling over direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side at the end.
- Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat for safe doneness.
- Boneless chicken thighs cook faster, usually in 12–18 minutes depending on size.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
