How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs on a Charcoal Grill (So They’re Juicy and Delicious!)
How Long to Cook Chicken T thighs on a Charcoal Grill
Nothing beats the smoky flavor of grilled chicken thighs on a hot summer day. But how long do you need to cook them to get them juicy and delicious?
The answer depends on a few factors, including the thickness of the thighs, the temperature of your grill, and your personal preference. But in general, chicken thighs will take about 30-40 minutes to cook on a charcoal grill.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill, including how to determine the cooking time, how to grill them to perfection, and how to avoid common mistakes. So whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, read on for all the tips you need to know!
| Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medium-high heat | 30-40 minutes | Turn thighs every 10 minutes or so to ensure even cooking. |
| High heat | 20-25 minutes | Turn thighs every 5 minutes or so to ensure even cooking. |
Chicken thighs are a popular and delicious grilling option. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to cook, and full of flavor. When cooked properly, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, with a crispy skin.
In this guide, we will show you how to cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill to perfection. We will cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right chicken thighs to grilling them to perfection.
Temperature and Time
The key to cooking chicken thighs on a charcoal grill is to cook them at a high temperature for a short period of time. This will help to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked through without drying out.
The ideal temperature for grilling chicken thighs is between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If the grill is too hot, the chicken thighs will burn on the outside before they are cooked through on the inside. If the grill is too cold, the chicken thighs will take too long to cook and will become dry.
The cooking time for chicken thighs will vary depending on their size and thickness. Smaller chicken thighs will cook faster than larger ones. As a general rule, chicken thighs will take between 10 and 12 minutes per side to cook.
To check if the chicken thighs are done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Marinades and Rubs
Marinades and rubs can add flavor and moisture to chicken thighs. There are many different marinades and rubs available, so you can experiment until you find one that you like.
Some good marinades for chicken thighs include:
- Teriyaki marinade: This marinade is made with soy sauce, mirin, garlic, ginger, and honey. It is a classic marinade that is perfect for chicken thighs.
- Lemon-herb marinade: This marinade is made with lemon juice, olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic. It is a light and flavorful marinade that is perfect for summer grilling.
- Spicy marinade: This marinade is made with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika. It is a flavorful and smoky marinade that is perfect for chicken thighs.
Some good rubs for chicken thighs include:
- Cajun rub: This rub is made with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. It is a flavorful and spicy rub that is perfect for chicken thighs.
- Herb rub: This rub is made with fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano. It is a light and flavorful rub that is perfect for chicken thighs.
- Smoked paprika rub: This rub is made with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. It is a flavorful and smoky rub that is perfect for chicken thighs.
How to Grill Chicken Thighs
To grill chicken thighs on a charcoal grill, follow these steps:
1. Preheat the grill to 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Marinate the chicken thighs in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the chicken thighs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Grilling chicken thighs is a great way to cook a delicious and flavorful meal. By following these tips, you can cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill to perfection.
Here are some additional tips for grilling chicken thighs:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. This will prevent the chicken thighs from cooking evenly.
- Baste the chicken thighs with the marinade or rub while they are grilling. This will help to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken thighs will be more tender.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to grill chicken thighs on a charcoal grill like a pro. So fire up the grill and enjoy!
3. Indirect Cooking
What is indirect cooking?
Indirect cooking is a grilling technique that involves cooking food over indirect heat. This means that the food is not placed directly over the coals, but rather to the side of them. This allows the food to cook more evenly and slowly, resulting in a more moist and flavorful end product.
How do you indirect cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill?
To indirect cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill, you will need the following:
- A charcoal grill
- Charcoal briquettes
- A grill grate
- A meat thermometer
- A spray bottle filled with water
- A baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Place the charcoal briquettes in a single layer on one side of the grill.
3. Place the grill grate over the coals.
4. Spray the chicken thighs with water to prevent them from drying out.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the grill grate, away from the coals.
6. Close the grill lid and cook the chicken thighs for 30 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Baste the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce every 15 minutes.
8. Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
What are the benefits of indirect cooking?
There are several benefits to indirect cooking chicken thighs on a charcoal grill.
- The food cooks more evenly. When food is cooked over direct heat, the outside of the food can quickly become overcooked while the inside remains undercooked. Indirect cooking prevents this by cooking the food more slowly and evenly.
- The food is more moist and flavorful. Indirect cooking allows the juices from the food to drip down onto the coals and create a flavorful smoke. This smoke flavor is then absorbed into the food, resulting in a more moist and flavorful end product.
- The food is less likely to burn. When food is cooked over direct heat, it is more likely to burn if it is not watched closely. Indirect cooking eliminates this risk by cooking the food more slowly and evenly.
4. Tips and Tricks
How do you prevent chicken thighs from drying out?
There are a few things you can do to prevent chicken thighs from drying out when grilling them on a charcoal grill.
- Use a meat thermometer. This will help you to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked to the correct internal temperature, which is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray the chicken thighs with water. This will help to keep them moist while they are cooking.
- Baste the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce. This will add flavor and moisture to the chicken thighs.
- Cover the chicken thighs with aluminum foil. This will help to keep them moist and prevent them from burning.
How do you make sure the chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful?
There are a few things you can do to make sure that chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful when grilling them on a charcoal grill.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the flavor of the chicken thighs.
- Marinate the chicken thighs in a flavorful marinade. This will help to add flavor and moisture to the chicken thighs.
- Cook the chicken thighs over indirect heat. This will help to prevent the chicken thighs from drying out.
- Baste the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce. This will add flavor and moisture to the chicken thighs.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling chicken thighs?
There are a few common mistakes that people make when grilling chicken thighs.
- Not using a meat thermometer. This is the most important tip for grilling chicken thighs. You need to make sure that the chicken thighs are cooked to the correct internal temperature, which is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cooking the chicken thighs over direct heat. This will dry out the chicken thighs.
- Not marinating the chicken thighs. Marinating the chicken thighs in a flavorful marinade will help to add flavor and moisture.
- Not basting the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce. Basting the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce will add flavor and moisture.
Grilling chicken thighs on a charcoal grill is a great way to cook a delicious and flavorful meal. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful every time.
How long do I cook chicken thighs on a charcoal grill?
The cooking time for chicken thighs on a charcoal grill will vary depending on the thickness of the thighs, the temperature of the grill, and your desired level of doneness.
- Thick thighs (1 inch or more) will take about 30-35 minutes to cook through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Thin thighs (less than 1 inch) will take about 20-25 minutes to cook through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If you are grilling at a high temperature (400 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), the cooking time will be shorter.
- If you are grilling at a low temperature (300 degrees Fahrenheit or lower), the cooking time will be longer.
- To check if the chicken thighs are cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What temperature should I grill chicken thighs?
The ideal temperature for grilling chicken thighs is between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
What is the best way to grill chicken thighs?
There are a few different ways to grill chicken thighs, but the most common method is to cook them directly over the heat. To do this, preheat your grill to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit and oil the grates. Then, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I marinate chicken thighs before grilling them?
Yes, you can marinate chicken thighs before grilling them. Marinating will help to add flavor and moisture to the chicken. Marinades can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, spices, and other flavorings. Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but up to 24 hours, before grilling.
What are some tips for grilling chicken thighs?
Here are a few tips for grilling chicken thighs:
- Preheat your grill to the correct temperature. This will help to ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly.
- Oil the grates of your grill. This will help to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This will help to add flavor to the chicken.
- Cook the chicken thighs skin-side down first. This will help to render the fat and create a crispy skin.
- Flip the chicken thighs halfway through cooking. This will help to ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help to retain the juices.
What are some common mistakes people make when grilling chicken thighs?
Here are a few common mistakes people make when grilling chicken thighs:
- Not preheating the grill to the correct temperature. This can result in uneven cooking and dry chicken.
- Not oiling the grates of the grill. This can cause the chicken to stick and tear.
- Not seasoning the chicken thighs. This can result in bland chicken.
- Cooking the chicken thighs too long. This can result in dry chicken.
- Not letting the chicken thighs rest before serving. This can result in watery chicken.
cooking chicken thighs on a charcoal grill is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this popular protein. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection every time. Be sure to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favorite combination. And don’t forget to enjoy the delicious smoky flavor that only a charcoal grill can provide!
Author Profile
-
With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.
Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.
In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.
Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.