How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs at 350 (Easy Recipe)

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How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs at 350 (Easy Recipe): Marinated to perfection with a blend of herbs and spices, these tender thighs boast a tantalizing charred exterior and juicy, mouthwatering meat in every bite. They’re perfect for any occasion and a surefire crowd-pleaser!

A perfect main dish to serve with- bruschetta, potato salad, and fruit salad.

finished grilled chicken thighs on a serving platter with herbs on the side. Ready to serve and eat.
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Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs

You’ll love this simple recipe for juicy chicken thighs every time! Fire up that grill and enjoy these BBQ chicken thighs.

  • Flavorful Marinade: The marinade for these grilled chicken thighs is bursting with flavor from a combination of smoked paprika, rosemary, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and more. It infuses the chicken with delicious savory, smoky flavor and tangy notes.
  • Versatile: Whether you use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or boneless, skinless ones, this recipe adapts easily to your preferences. The marinade works beautifully with both types of chicken, resulting in tender and flavorful results every time.

Here are more chicken recipes you will love: Baked Chicken thighsStuffed ChickenRoasted Whole ChickenFried Chicken TendersEasy Chicken Spiedini Recipe, Chicken Thighs in Creamy Sauce, and Chicken Cutlets.

grilled chicken thighs in a plate with grilled lemon wedges.

Simple Ingredients

You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make this recipe shine. With basic pantry staples, you can create a mouthwatering marinade that elevates your grilled chicken to new heights.

ingredients.
  • Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are used for their juicy and flavorful meat. The bone-in, skin-on variety adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist during grilling. I love the bone-in chicken thighs for the crispy skin!
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is used as a base for the marinade. It adds richness and helps to coat the chicken thighs evenly.
marinade ingredients.
  • Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika lends a deep, smoky flavor to the marinade, imparting a delicious barbecue-like taste to the grilled chicken thighs.
  • Dried Rosemary: Dried rosemary provides a savory, earthy flavor to the marinade, complementing the other herbs and spices.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, add pungent, aromatic flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the grilled chicken thighs.
  • Orange Juice: a burst of freshness to the savory and sweet marinade.
  • Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its natural flavors.
  • Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick to the marinade and helps emulsify the ingredients, ensuring they adhere well to the chicken.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar contributes a sweet and slightly acidic flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish.
  • Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey or brown sugar adds sweetness to the marinade, balancing out the acidity from the lemon juice and vinegar and creating a delicious caramelized crust on the grilled chicken thighs.
  • Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley is used as a garnish to add color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the finished dish.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs Step-by-Step Photo Instructions

With just a few simple steps, you can quickly prepare this dish for a charcoal or gas grill. The marinade comes together quickly, and you can let the chicken thighs soak up all the flavors. Let them marinate overnight for even more depth of flavor. The best way to grill chicken thighs:

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- mixing the marinade in a bowl.

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, dried rosemary, minced garlic, salt, Dijon mustard, orange juice, spy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey (or brown sugar).

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- mixing the marinade in a bowl.

Whisk together until well combined.

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- pouring the marinade over the chicken thighs.

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- let the chicken thighs marinade.

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- place chicken thighs on hot grill.

Preheat the Grill.

How long to grill chicken thighs at 350 instructions- grill on both sides. Chicken has nice grill marks.

Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin side down.

finished grilled chicken thighs on a serving platter with herbs on the side. Ready to serve and eat.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends and family, these grilled chicken thighs will surely be a hit and make everyone’s taste buds go wild. Enjoy your delicious chicken thighs!

Best Temperature to Grill Chicken Thighs

The best temperature to grill chicken thighs is generally between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This temperature range allows the chicken thighs to cook through evenly without burning on the outside. Cooking chicken thighs at this temperature also helps to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside.

Substitutions

  • Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in, skin-on thighs. Additionally, you can substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option and adjust cooking times accordingly. This is one of the best chicken marinades, so you can use it on any kind of chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Any neutral oil, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil, can be used as a substitute for olive oil in the marinade.
  • Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be substituted for lemon juice to provide a similar acidic tang to the marinade.
  • Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use a combination of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
grilled chicken thighs in a plate with grilled lemon wedges.

Variations for Grilling Chicken Thighs

  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Thighs: Use Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, lemon juice, and basil in the marinade. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Chicken Thighs: In the marinade, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper. Serve with tzatziki sauce and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing Greek flavor.
  • Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs: Combine honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and garlic in the marinade for a sweet and spicy kick. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Equipment

Storage

To store grilled chicken thighs, allow them to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date if storing for more than a day. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

You can use the leftover grilled chicken to make this Sandwich!

finished grilled chicken thighs on a serving platter with herbs on the side. Ready to serve and eat.

Top tips

  • Proper Preheating: Ensure your grill is preheated to the correct temperature (around 350°F to 375°F or 175°C to 190°C) before adding the chicken thighs. This helps sear the meat, lock in juices, and prevent it from sticking.
  • Even Thickness: To ensure even cooking, select chicken thighs that are similar in size. If using bone-in thighs, consider trimming excess skin or fat to promote even grilling.
  • Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid crowding the grill with too many chicken thighs, as this can result in uneven cooking and hinder the development of a nice sear. Leave some space between each thigh for proper airflow.
  • Proper Flipping: Flip the chicken thighs only once during grilling to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char on both sides. Avoid constantly flipping or moving the chicken, which can interfere with the grill marks and cooking.
  • Basting: Occasionally, while grilling, baste the chicken thighs with any remaining marinade or a sauce of your choice. This adds moisture and flavor, enhancing the chicken’s overall taste.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through but not overdone, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
  • Resting Period: Allow the grilled chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This

FAQs

What temperature should I grill chicken thighs?

For grilling chicken thighs, it’s best to preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, typically around 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This temperature range allows the chicken thighs to cook through evenly without burning on the outside. It also helps to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside.

How long do you grill chicken at 350 degrees?

At 350°F (175°C), bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs typically require 5-8 minutes per side on the grill. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on factors such as the chicken thighs’ thickness, the grill’s heat, and whether you’re using bone-in or boneless thighs. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken thighs’ internal temperature (check the thickest part of the thigh) to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).

Looking for other recipes? Try these:

What to Serve with Grilled Chicken

Make your meal complete with these yummy side dishes.

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plate of grilled chicken thighs. Cover photo.

How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs at 350 (Easy Recipe)

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5 from 2 reviews

Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs- marinated to perfection with a blend of herbs and spices, these tender thighs boast a tantalizing charred exterior and juicy, mouthwatering meat in every bite. They’re perfect for any occasion and a surefire crowd-pleaser!

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or boneless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, dried rosemary, minced garlic, salt, Dijon mustard, orange juice, spy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey (or brown sugar). Whisk together until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 350°F (175°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  5. While grilling, baste the chicken occasionally with any remaining marinade for extra flavor and moisture. IMPORTANT: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs and the heat of your grill. Use a good meat thermometer for best results.
  6. Serve: Once the chicken thighs are cooked through and have developed a nice charred exterior, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Cover with aluminum foil and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting. 
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the grilled chicken thighs hot alongside your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, salad, or rice.

Notes

Top Tips

Proper Preheating: Ensure your grill is preheated to the correct temperature (around 350°F to 375°F or 175°C to 190°C) before adding the chicken thighs. This helps sear the meat, lock in juices, and prevent it from sticking.

Even Thickness: To ensure even cooking, try to select chicken thighs that are similar in size. If using bone-in thighs, consider trimming excess skin or fat to promote even grilling.

Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.

Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid crowding the grill with too many chicken thighs, as this can result in uneven cooking and hinder the development of a nice sear. Leave some space between each thigh for proper airflow.

Proper Flipping: Flip the chicken thighs only once during grilling to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char on both sides. Avoid constantly flipping or moving the chicken, which can interfere with the grill marks and cooking.

Basting: Occasionally, while grilling, baste the chicken thighs with any remaining marinade or a sauce of your choice. This adds moisture and flavor, enhancing the chicken’s overall taste.

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through but not overdone, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.

Resting Period: Allow the grilled chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This

  • Author: Elena
  • Prep Time: 5 min + marinade time
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Savory
  • Method: Italian
  • Cuisine: Italian

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About Elena

My dream is to share delicious wholesome recipes that you will share around the table with all your loved ones. The memories surrounded by food are the heart and soul of CucinaByElena.

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4 Comments

  1. We tried this as our new recipe sampling for the week! It is going to the number one spot on our rotation. We left it marinating for two days.
    It was still amazing. I can’t wait to try more of your recipes. My family gave it a 10+ out of 5!!!






  2. Love this recipie, also try the Lemon and Oil Yoghurt cake , a true Family favourite.❤️❤️❤️