As a culinary expert with a passion for grilling, I'm thrilled to share some insights on how to cook chicken thighs on the grill. Grilling chicken thighs is a delightful way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat, and when done right, it can be juicy, tender, and full of smoky flavor. Let's delve into the process step by step.

Preparation:
Before you start the grill, it's essential to prepare the chicken thighs properly. Begin by trimming the chicken: remove any large areas of fat and trim off excess flaps of skin. A sharp pair of kitchen shears can be very handy for this task. However, it's generally recommended to leave the skin on for grilling, as it helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor.

Marinating:
Marinating the chicken thighs can significantly enhance their flavor. A good marinade not only adds taste but also helps to tenderize the meat. A simple marinade can be made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of herbs. Let the chicken thighs marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Preheating the Grill:
Start your grill and let it preheat to a medium heat. This is typically around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C). A well-preheated grill will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and sears nicely.

Grilling:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. This will help render out the fat and create a crispy skin. Grill over direct medium heat for about 10 minutes. The skin should be golden brown and crispy at this point.

Turning and Cooking:
After the initial 10 minutes, use a pair of tongs to carefully turn the chicken thighs. Cook them for another 5-10 minutes, depending on their size. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when it's fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Checking for Doneness:
To ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. If you don't have one, you can also check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a thigh; the juices should run clear, and it should not be pink inside.

Resting:
Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Serving:
Serve the grilled chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes. They pair well with grilled vegetables, salads, or a simple rice dish.

In conclusion, grilling chicken thighs is a rewarding cooking method that can turn an ordinary meal into a delicious feast. With the right preparation, marinating, grilling technique, and resting time, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken thighs every time.

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Grill to 180-185 internal temperature. Right at 25 minutes for me but this will vary some with your exact grill surface temperature, the temperature of the thighs and thickness. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.Aug 1, 2015read more >>