Get ready to transform your ordinary grilling experience into a mouthwatering culinary adventure! These BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs aren't just another recipe – they're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines juicy, tender meat with a perfectly caramelized, smoky-sweet BBQ glaze. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or craving a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe will elevate your cooking game and have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and seasoning adherence.
- Season chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, approximately 375-400°F for optimal grilling conditions.
- Lightly brush chicken thighs with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization.
- Place chicken thighs on the preheated grill, cooking for 6-7 minutes on the first side until nice grill marks develop and chicken begins to release from grate.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the second side.
- Brush generously with BBQ sauce during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, allowing sauce to caramelize without burning.
- Check internal temperature with meat thermometer - chicken should reach 165°F at thickest part for safe consumption.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Slice chicken thighs against the grain and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let chicken sit at room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent dry meat.
- Moisture is Key: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve better browning and help seasonings stick.
- Don't Rush the Grill: Maintain medium-high heat (375-400°F) for perfect caramelization without burning.
- Sauce Strategy: Apply BBQ sauce in the final 2-3 minutes of cooking to prevent burning and create a beautiful glaze.
- Never Guess, Always Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature.
- Rest is Best: Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Bonus Tip: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 1-2 hours before grilling to infuse additional depth and moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 180mg
