How Long To Cook Chicken Thighs On Grill

ByLily

Grill timing for chicken thighs depends on whether you use direct or indirect heat. If you want juicy meat with crispy skin, knowing exactly how long to cook chicken thighs on grill makes all the difference between a great meal and a dry one.

The good news is that thighs are forgiving. They have more fat than breasts, so they stay moist even if you leave them on a bit longer.

Below you’ll find times for both methods, plus temps, tips, and a simple step-by-step process.

How Long To Cook Chicken Thighs On Grill

Here are the basic time ranges you can count on. Times assume medium heat, around 350 to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Boneless, direct heat: 6 to 8 minutes per side
  • Bone-in, direct heat: 10 to 12 minutes per side
  • Boneless, indirect heat: 20 to 25 minutes total
  • Bone-in, indirect heat: 35 to 45 minutes total

Always cook to temperature, not just time. Chicken thighs need to hit 175 degrees Fahrenheit internally for the best texture.

Direct Heat Vs Indirect Heat Explained

Direct heat means the chicken sits right over the flames or coals. Indirect heat means the chicken sits off to the side, with the lid closed.

Direct heat gives you char and crispy skin. It also burns faster, so you have to watch it closely.

Indirect heat works like an oven. It cooks evenly and gently, which is great for thick bone-in pieces.

When To Use Direct Heat

  • Boneless thighs that cook fast
  • When you want grill marks and crispy edges
  • Small batches you can flip often

When To Use Indirect Heat

  • Bone-in thighs with skin
  • Large batches where flare-ups are a risk
  • When you want hands-off cooking

Step-By-Step Grilling Process

Follow these steps for consistent results every time.

  1. Pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Dry skin equals crispy skin.
  2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and any rub you like. Let them sit for 20 minutes.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and oil the grates.
  4. For direct heat, place thighs over the coals. For indirect, place them on the cool side and close the lid.
  5. Flip every 5 to 7 minutes for even cooking. Move pieces around if you see flare-ups.
  6. Check the internal temp with a meat thermometer. Pull them at 175 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving.

How To Tell When They’re Done

A thermometer is the only reliable way. Insert it into the thickest part without touching bone.

  • 165 degrees Fahrenheit: safe to eat, but slightly chewy
  • 175 degrees Fahrenheit: tender and juicy, best texture
  • 185 degrees Fahrenheit: fall-apart soft, still fine for thighs

Tips For Juicy Chicken Thighs

These small habits make a big difference.

  • Leave the skin on. It protects the meat and adds flavor.
  • Don’t trim all the fat. Fat bastes the meat as it cooks.
  • Brine for 30 minutes in salt water if you have time. It adds moisture.
  • Keep the lid closed on indirect cooks. Every peek drops the temperature.
  • Let the meat rest. Cutting early loses juices onto the plate.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Cooking cold chicken straight from the fridge. Let it sit out 15 minutes first.
  • Using high heat the whole time. The outside burns before the inside cooks.
  • Pressing down with a spatula. This squeezes out the juices.
  • Saucing too early. Sugar-based sauces burn fast, so add them in the last 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Grill Chicken Thighs From Frozen?

Yes, but add about 50 percent more time. Thawed thighs cook faster and more evenly, so thaw when you can.

Should I Close The Lid While Grilling?

Close it for indirect cooking and for bone-in pieces. For thin boneless thighs over direct heat, you can leave it open so you can watch them.

How Long Do Grilled Chicken Thighs Last?

Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed container. Reheat gently so they don’t dry out.

Do I Need To Flip Chicken Thighs Often?

Every 5 to 7 minutes is plenty. Constant flipping slows cooking and can tear the skin.

Final Word On Timing

So how long do you grill chicken thighs? Boneless pieces need about 12 to 16 minutes over direct heat. Bone-in pieces need 20 to 25 minutes direct or 35 to 45 minutes indirect.

Use a thermometer, aim for 175 degrees Fahrenheit, and rest the meat before serving. Do that and your thighs will come out juicy every single time.

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