As I flipped through my recipe book, the aroma of summer cookouts wafted through my mind, reminding me of grilled meats sizzling away, smoke dancing amidst sunshine. That’s when I decided it was time for a round of Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs with Southern Sauce. This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining a tender, juicy texture with a harmonious blend of smoky sweetness that brightens any gathering or busy weeknight dinner. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but the flavorful, homemade BBQ sauce can be tailored to fit your spice preferences. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this gluten-free delight that’s sure to impress. So, are you ready to fire up the grill and dive into some mouthwatering chicken thighs? Let’s get cooking! Why Are These Chicken Thighs So Irresistible? Juicy, succulent chicken: The boneless thighs remain incredibly tender and rich, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Simple prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish on the table in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Versatile sauces: Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or smoky, you can easily customize the BBQ sauce to match your taste by trying different herbs or spices. Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is bound to impress at summer gatherings or family meals, leaving everyone satisfied and asking for seconds. If you’re in the mood for more delightful chicken dishes, consider trying Cilantro Pesto Chicken or Chicken Ginger Rice for variety. Perfectly paired sides: Serve it alongside fresh coleslaw or sweet corn on the cob for the ultimate BBQ experience. Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – The main protein source that stays juicy on the grill, perfect for rich flavors. For the Spice Rub • Brown sugar – Adds sweetness, balancing the tanginess of the BBQ sauce; you can also use coconut sugar for a unique twist. • Kosher salt – Enhances chicken flavor; feel free to use sea salt if you don’t have kosher. • Garlic powder – Introduces savory depth; fresh garlic can work too, just adjust to your taste. • Onion powder – Adds sweetness and aroma; you can substitute with finely chopped fresh onion if preferred. • Smoked paprika – Essential for that smoky flavor in Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs; regular paprika can be used, but it lacks the desired smokiness. • Chili powder – Adds a hint of heat; cayenne can be swapped in for a spicier experience. For Grilling • Avocado oil – Keeps chicken moist and helps spices adhere; olive or vegetable oil are good substitutes. For the Sauce • Homemade Southern BBQ sauce – Provides the main flavor essence; a store-bought version can be used when you’re short on time. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Step 1: Prepare Spice Rub In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder until well combined. This aromatic blend will infuse the chicken with flavor. Set it aside as you move on to prepping the chicken, ensuring you’re ready for a delicious grilling experience with your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Step 2: Prep Chicken Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry using paper towels, which helps the spice rub adhere better. Drizzle avocado oil over both sides of the chicken, ensuring a light coating. Generously sprinkle the prepared spice rub all over the chicken, pressing gently to make sure the spices stick. This step will create a flavorful crust when grilled. Step 3: Heat Grill Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of around 400°F (200°C). As the grill heats up, give the grates a good cleaning and oil them lightly to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks while ensuring your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs cook evenly and don’t stick to the grates. Step 4: Grill Chicken Carefully place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the chicken; it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully charred, inviting you to dive into flavorful bliss. Step 5: Add BBQ Sauce In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken thighs with the homemade Southern BBQ sauce, using a basting brush. This allows the sauce to caramelize, adding a rich, sticky glaze that will elevate the flavors of your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Heat this delicately for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Step 6: Rest and Serve Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite of your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs remains juicy and tender. Serve with your favorite sides or slice them to include in salads or sandwiches for a delicious meal. Make Ahead Options These Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs are an excellent option for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the spice rub and apply it to the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully in the refrigerator. If you have more time, marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor. Additionally, the homemade Southern BBQ sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, simply preheat your grill and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, adding the sauce in the last few minutes. This way, you get to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort! Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Variations Feel free to get creative with your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs by trying these fun modifications! Spice Boost: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a smoky kick. A little heat can amplify the flavors, making each bite a thrilling adventure for your taste buds. Oil Swap: Swap avocado oil with olive or vegetable oil based on what you have on hand. Each oil brings its own unique richness, and experimenting with them can yield delightful results. Fresh Herb Garnish: Top your grilled chicken with fresh parsley or cilantro after cooking to add a burst of color and flavor. This simple touch can really elevate your dish, making it more vibrant and inviting. Smoky Essence: Enhance the smokiness by using a smoker instead of a grill or sprinkle some smoked salt before serving. That extra layer of smoky goodness can create an irresistible finish to your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Sauce Twists: Experiment with BBQ sauce flavors like honey mustard or a tangy cherry glaze. Changing the sauce can easily transform the dish and impress anyone who digs into it! Fruit Infusion: Add some crushed pineapple or diced peaches to the BBQ sauce for a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors. This twist adds a delightful fruity note that screams summer. Marinade Magic: Marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for enhanced flavor. Letting it soak overnight allows all the spices to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with zing. Crispy Finish: For a crunchy texture, grill the chicken and then briefly broil it for a few minutes. This step creates that beautiful, caramelized exterior everyone loves while keeping the inside tender. If you’re looking for even more delicious chicken ideas, don’t miss out on trying Cilantro Pesto Chicken or for a comforting option, check out Chicken Ginger Rice. Enjoy your flavorful journey! Storage Tips for Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs fresh while preventing any unwanted odors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the date for easy tracking. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for the best results. This will help restore moisture and flavor. Thawing: If frozen, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures an even heat that maintains juiciness. Expert Tips for Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Marinate for Flavor: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken with the spice rub for at least 30 minutes to overnight. This ensures the spices fully penetrate the meat. Use a Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to check the temperature; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked without drying out. Watch Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness; grilling times can vary based on thickness, so monitor closely for optimal juiciness. Oil the Grill Grates: Clean and oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking, leading to perfectly grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs every time. Customize the Spice: If you like more heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your spice rub for a delightful kick. What to Serve with Juicy Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Bring your summer gatherings to life with vibrant flavors and textures that make every bite unforgettable. Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp texture and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken, balancing rich flavors perfectly. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn brings a touch of summer sweetness. Slather it with butter and herbs for an irresistible side. Baked Beans: Nutty and slightly sweet, baked beans add a heartiness that complements the flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a classic pairing. Potato Salad: The creamy goodness of potato salad holds its own against the grilled chicken, offering hearty comfort with every spoonful. Watermelon Feta Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad adds a burst of sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the meal’s appeal. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery option, garlic bread is a charming addition that soaks up extra barbecue sauce, making it even more enjoyable. Lemonade: A customized, chilled lemonade provides a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the BBQ chicken, enhancing your dining experience. These delightful sides elevate the juicy grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs and create an inviting summer feast! Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? Absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs! They are preferred for their rich flavor and juiciness, making them perfect for grilling. If you use bone-in thighs or breasts, be mindful that cooking times will vary, and they may require longer on the grill. How should I store leftover grilled chicken thighs? To keep your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain their flavor and moisture. I often make a batch on Sundays and enjoy them throughout the week! Can I freeze grilled chicken thighs, and how? Yes, you can freeze them! Place the grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat at 325°F (165°C) for best results. How do I avoid dry chicken when grilling? To prevent dryness, marinate the chicken with the spice rub for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight. Additionally, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking it. The perfect timing is typically around 5-6 minutes per side—but keep an eye on it! What can I use if I have dietary concerns? If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you’ll be pleased to know that this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially with homemade BBQ sauce! Additionally, you can make swaps like using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, or avocado oil if you’re watching your fat intake. Always ensure the sauces you choose do not contain gluten or allergens. How can I customize the spice level? The spice in your Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs can be adjusted easily! To elevate the heat, incorporate cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the spice rub or BBQ sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go to reach your desired level of spice—everyone’s palate is unique, and I love experimenting with different flavors! Juicy Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs for Summer Bliss Enjoy these Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs bursting with flavor, perfect for summer cookouts. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthernCalories: 280 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighsFor the Spice Rub2 tablespoons Brown sugar can substitute with coconut sugar1 teaspoon Kosher salt or sea salt1 teaspoon Garlic powder use fresh garlic if preferred1 teaspoon Onion powder or finely chopped fresh onion1 teaspoon Smoked paprika or regular paprika1 teaspoon Chili powder can substitute with cayenne for more heatFor Grilling2 tablespoons Avocado oil can substitute with olive or vegetable oilFor the Sauce1 cup Homemade Southern BBQ sauce store-bought version can be used Equipment Grillbasting brushMeat Thermometer Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder until well combined.Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, drizzle avocado oil over both sides, and sprinkle the prepared spice rub generously over the chicken.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C), and clean the grates, oiling them lightly.Carefully place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken thighs with the homemade Southern BBQ sauce.Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1thighCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg NotesFor maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice rub for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked properly without drying out. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
