Any One Can Put The Heat To The Meat But Only A Few Can Barbeque

How Long to Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs

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When it comes to grilling, bone-in chicken thighs are a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. These juicy cuts of chicken are packed with flavor, and the bone helps retain moisture during cooking. However, achieving perfectly grilled chicken thighs requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to cooking time. In this article, we’ll dive into every step of the process to ensure your grilled chicken thighs are tender, flavorful, and safe to eat.

Preparing Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Preparation is key to great-tasting grilled chicken. Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat or skin to prevent flare-ups on the grill and to improve texture.

Seasoning:

  • Choose your marinade or rub based on the flavor profile you want to achieve. For example:
    • Classic BBQ: Use a combination of smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
    • Garlic Herb: Mix olive oil, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and lemon juice.
    • Spicy Kick: Combine chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, and a touch of honey for balance.

Coat the chicken thoroughly with your chosen seasoning or marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination in the refrigerator will yield the most flavorful results. Bring the chicken to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.

Setting Up the Grill

Proper grill setup is essential for achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat.

For a Gas Grill:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat (350°F–375°F).
  2. Create a two-zone setup by leaving one burner off for indirect cooking. This allows you to sear the chicken on direct heat and finish cooking on indirect heat.

For a Charcoal Grill:

  1. Light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with white ash.
  2. Arrange the coals on one side of the grill to create direct and indirect cooking zones.
  3. Adjust the vents to maintain a consistent temperature.

Cooking Time for Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs require a combination of direct and indirect heat to cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior without burning.

Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Searing Over Direct Heat

  • Place the chicken thighs skin-side down over the direct heat zone. Sear for 3-5 minutes until the skin develops a golden-brown, crispy texture. Be careful not to burn the skin.
  • Flip the thighs and sear the other side for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Cooking Over Indirect Heat

  • Move the chicken thighs to the indirect heat zone. Close the lid to trap the heat and cook the chicken evenly.
  • Grill the chicken for 20-30 minutes, flipping every 10 minutes to prevent charring.

Internal Temperature Check:

  • Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
  • The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F. For extra juiciness and tenderness, some cooks prefer to cook thighs to 175°F–180°F.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs

  1. Don’t Rush: Cooking chicken too quickly over high heat can result in burnt skin and undercooked meat. Stick to medium heat for even cooking.
  2. Add Sauce at the Right Time: If you’re using a BBQ sauce, brush it on during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce.
  3. Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful meat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Burnt Skin, Undercooked Meat:

  • This happens when the heat is too high. Move the chicken to the indirect zone and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Flare-Ups:

  • Fat from the chicken skin can cause flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to douse flames, and trim excess fat before grilling.

Dry Chicken:

  • Overcooking can dry out the meat. Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness closely.

Serving Suggestions

Bone-in chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

  • Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus make healthy, colorful additions.
  • Classic Sides: Coleslaw, baked beans, or potato salad are always crowd-pleasers.
  • Fresh Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling bone-in chicken thighs is a rewarding process that’s well worth the effort. With proper preparation, a well-set grill, and careful attention to cooking times, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, these tips and techniques will elevate your grilling game. Experiment with different marinades and sides to keep things exciting, and enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of grilled chicken thighs!