Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

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Summer cookouts and backyard dinners wouldn’t be complete without a plate of smoky, sticky, flavorful Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. This recipe is my go-to when I want something fast, foolproof, and packed with bold BBQ taste. The best part? These chicken thighs stay juicy on the inside while developing a gorgeous caramelized crust on the outside—thanks to a few simple grilling tricks and a well-balanced homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce.

I love how this dish transforms everyday ingredients into something that feels special. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a low-effort dinner with high rewards, grilled BBQ chicken thighs hit the mark. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll see why this recipe earns a spot in my weeknight dinner rotation all summer long—and even beyond grilling season.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe

• It’s quick and easy—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Juicy chicken thighs are nearly impossible to overcook.
• The BBQ glaze creates a smoky, sticky, and slightly charred finish.
• You can grill outdoors or use a grill pan indoors.
• Customizable with your favorite BBQ sauces or spice blends.

What Kind of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?

You can absolutely use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience, but if you want to elevate the flavor, go with a thick, slightly sweet and smoky variety. I personally enjoy sauces with a hint of spice or bourbon. If you’re up for making your own, even better—homemade BBQ sauce gives you complete control over the sweetness, heat, and tanginess.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken thighs: You can swap for boneless chicken breasts, though they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.
• BBQ sauce: Try honey mustard, buffalo, teriyaki, or even a garlic herb glaze for a different spin.
• Dry rub: Don’t have time to marinate? Use a simple dry rub of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar before grilling.
• Cooking method: If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake them in the oven at 425°F for about 25 minutes.

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Ingredients for This Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – They’re the star of the recipe. Their higher fat content compared to breasts means they stay juicy and tender on the grill.
• BBQ sauce – Adds that rich, sticky, smoky-sweet glaze. Pick your favorite or make it homemade.
• Olive oil – Helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle richness.
• Salt & black pepper – Basic seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Garlic powder – Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness and deep color to the chicken.
• Brown sugar (optional) – For an added caramelized finish and balanced sweetness in the seasoning.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the boneless chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks better. Place them in a large bowl or zip-top bag.

Step 2: Season Generously

Drizzle olive oil over the thighs, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar (if using). Toss until evenly coated. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes while your grill preheats.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean the grates and oil them to prevent sticking. This is key for that perfect sear.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, turning only once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You should see nice grill marks and slight charring on the edges.

Step 5: Add BBQ Sauce

In the final 2–3 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with your BBQ sauce. Flip and brush the other side. Let the sauce caramelize slightly but don’t burn it.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

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How Long to Prepare Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Prep Time: Most of the prep is hands-off. Trimming and seasoning the chicken takes about 10–15 minutes. Letting it sit to absorb the seasoning adds another 15–20 minutes (which you can overlap with heating the grill).

Cook Time: The actual grilling time is fast—around 10–12 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the thighs. Make sure to brush the BBQ sauce toward the end so it caramelizes without burning. Including resting time, the entire cooking process is about 20–25 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

• Always preheat your grill and oil the grates to avoid sticking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Apply the BBQ sauce during the final few minutes to prevent it from burning.
• Let the meat rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
• Don’t crowd the grill—space the thighs apart for even cooking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the preheat: A cold grill leads to sticking and uneven cooking.
• Overusing BBQ sauce too early: It can char quickly due to its sugar content.
• Not drying the chicken: Moisture prevents a proper sear and good seasoning adherence.
• Over-flipping: Flip only once for best grill marks and juiciness.
• Undercooking or overcooking: Use a thermometer—don’t guess.

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What to Serve With Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs?

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred and sweet, it complements the smoky BBQ flavor beautifully.

2. Classic Coleslaw

Cool, creamy crunch that balances the savory and sweet BBQ glaze.

3. Baked Mac and Cheese

Rich and cheesy, it’s a crowd-pleasing side that pairs well with BBQ chicken.

4. Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Crispy and flavorful, they make a hearty and satisfying addition.

5. Watermelon Feta Salad

Refreshing and slightly tangy—a perfect summer side dish.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The chicken stays moist and flavorful even after reheating.

Freezing: You can freeze grilled chicken thighs for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually or in portions using foil and place them in freezer bags.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second bursts. Brush with a little extra BBQ sauce to refresh the flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~220 per thigh
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Fiber: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temp reaches 165°F.

Can I marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce?

You can, but it’s better to marinate in dry spices or oil-based marinades. BBQ sauce should be added during the last minutes of grilling.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Use a grill pan on the stove or bake in the oven at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, broiling in the last few minutes for char.

Can I use bone-in thighs instead?

Yes, but they’ll require longer cook time and should be grilled over indirect heat.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook. Resting the meat and using thighs instead of breasts also helps retain moisture.

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Conclusion

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs are the ultimate backyard dinner—simple, fast, and full of flavor. With just a few pantry staples and some grill time, you can whip up a meal that rivals any BBQ joint. The juicy, tender meat paired with a caramelized BBQ glaze makes it perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Once you try it, this might just become your new favorite way to do chicken!

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