Marinated grilled chicken thighs are the ultimate answer to quick, flavorful dinners that everyone will love. Packed with savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, this easy recipe is a must-have for your summer grilling lineup. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy juicy, tender chicken that’s been infused with a delicious marinade made from pantry staples like honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight meal or a weekend BBQ, these marinated grilled chicken thighs are guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and incredibly simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with these marinated grilled chicken thighs for their unbeatable flavor and ease of preparation. The honey-dijon marinade offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and savory notes. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re a grilling newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or substitute coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Place all the marinade ingredients and chicken into a gallon-sized zip-top bag.
- Seal the bag and shake it thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Lay the bag flat in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the chicken to the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Always use a digital thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to trap heat and intensify the smoky taste.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to preserve juiciness.
Substitutions And Variations
- Sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a different flavor profile.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to enhance aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store leftover grilled chicken thighs? Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the chicken directly in the marinade bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely. Just adjust the grill time accordingly, as breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Store either cooked or raw marinated chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months. Label clearly with the date for easy tracking.
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Conclusion
These marinated grilled chicken thighs are incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or need a dependable dinner idea, this recipe has you covered. Try it out today and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to explore more of our grilled chicken recipes for even more culinary inspiration.
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Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinate time)
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Marinated grilled chicken thighs are packed with bold, savory flavors and grilled to juicy perfection. This quick, healthy, and simple recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or summer BBQs. With a honey-dijon marinade made from pantry staples, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and sure to be a family favorite. Grill these up in just 25 minutes and enjoy a delicious, protein-rich meal. Try it today!
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Place all the marinade ingredients and chicken into a gallon-sized zip-top bag.
- Seal the bag and shake it thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Lay the bag flat in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the chicken to the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
Keep grill lid closed to retain heat and boost flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes Marinate Time: 1+ hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Entree, Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 28g