How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs on a Gas Grill?
Grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill is a quick and easy way to cook a delicious and juicy meal. But how long should you grill chicken thighs to ensure they are cooked through and still moist? In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how long to grill chicken thighs on a gas grill, covering everything from the perfect temperature to tips for achieving maximum flavor.
Before we dive into the grilling process, let’s take a moment to understand the anatomy of a chicken thigh. The thigh is a dark meat cut that is naturally flavorful and tender. It is located at the top of the leg and is larger than the drumstick. Chicken thighs are a versatile cut that can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, and braising.
Factors Affecting Grilling Time
The grilling time for chicken thighs can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Size and thickness of the chicken thighs: Smaller thighs will cook faster than larger ones.
- Temperature of the grill: A higher grill temperature will cook the thighs more quickly.
- Marinade or rub: A marinade or rub can help to tenderize the chicken and reduce grilling time.
- Preferred level of doneness: Some people prefer their chicken thighs to be cooked through completely, while others prefer them to be slightly pink in the center.
Recommended Grilling Time
As a general rule of thumb, grill chicken thighs over medium heat (350-400°F) for the following times:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 8-12 minutes per side
- Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs: 10-15 minutes per side
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: 12-18 minutes per side
These cooking times are approximate, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to your desired doneness. The internal temperature of a cooked chicken thigh should be 165°F.
Tips for Grilling Chicken Thighs
Here are a few tips for grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill:
- Preheat the grill: Before you start grilling, preheat the grill to the desired temperature.
- Use a marinade or rub: Marinating or rubbing the chicken thighs can help to enhance the flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Oil the grill grate: To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grate.
- Cook over medium heat: Cooking over medium heat will help to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly without burning.
- Flip the thighs regularly: Flipping the thighs every 5-7 minutes will help to prevent them from burning and ensure that they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice for grilling chicken thighs:
- Use a grill basket: A grill basket can help to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grate and makes it easier to flip.
- Cook indirectly: If you are grilling over a gas grill with multiple burners, cook the chicken indirectly over the unlit burners.
- Let the chicken rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken.
FAQ
- Q: What is the best way to marinate chicken thighs?
- A: There are many different ways to marinate chicken thighs. Some popular options include olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices.
- Q: How can I tell if chicken thighs are cooked through?
- A: The best way to tell if chicken thighs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of a cooked chicken thigh should be 165°F.
- Q: Can I grill chicken thighs with the skin on?
- A: Yes, you can grill chicken thighs with the skin on. However, it is important to oil the grill grate to prevent the skin from sticking.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill is a quick and easy way to cook a delicious and juicy meal. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection every time. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy some amazing grilled chicken!
Are you interested in learning more about grilling chicken thighs? Check out our other articles on the topic!
