Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy, Flavorful, and Perfectly Charred

When it comes to grilling, few proteins are as versatile and rewarding as chicken thighs. Their natural richness and tender, juicy texture make them ideal for absorbing bold marinades and holding up to high heat on the grill. Among the many ways to prepare chicken thighs, Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs offer a perfect combination of smoky char, tangy barbecue flavors, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that keeps families and friends coming back for seconds.

Save it!

Unlike chicken breasts, which can easily dry out when grilled, boneless chicken thighs have just the right amount of fat to stay succulent and flavorful. This makes them an excellent choice for barbecue enthusiasts who want to achieve that classic “charcoal-grilled” taste without sacrificing moisture. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs provide a delicious and crowd-pleasing option.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in the chicken itself but also in the marinade and barbecue sauce that infuse it with layers of flavor. From the tang of vinegar and mustard to the sweetness of brown sugar and molasses, the perfect BBQ sauce balances smoky, sweet, and spicy notes that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Paired with a well-seasoned dry rub or marinade, this dish brings out the best of summer grilling traditions.

In this extensive guide, we will cover every aspect of creating perfect grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs—from selecting the best cuts and prepping them properly, to crafting a homemade barbecue sauce that complements rather than overpowers the meat. You’ll learn grilling techniques that ensure even cooking, juicy results, and that coveted smoky char. We’ll also explore tips for indoor grilling or stovetop alternatives, making this recipe accessible no matter your kitchen setup.

Additionally, this guide will dive into variations of barbecue styles—from tangy Carolina to smoky Kansas City and spicy Texas rubs—giving you plenty of inspiration to customize the recipe according to your personal taste. We’ll share ideas for side dishes, serving suggestions, and advice on how to store and reheat leftovers without losing flavor or moisture.

Whether you are a seasoned grill master or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to master grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs. The result? Mouthwatering chicken that’s perfectly charred on the outside, juicy and tender inside, and bursting with rich, smoky barbecue flavors that satisfy every craving.

So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that epitomizes summer, celebration, and good times shared around the table. Let’s get started!

How to Make Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs: Step-by-Step Instructions

Grilling boneless chicken thighs to perfection requires attention to preparation, marinade, grilling technique, and finishing. Follow these steps closely to get juicy, tender meat with that signature BBQ char and flavor.

Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Chicken Thighs

• Select quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs with some fat content work best as they stay juicy during grilling.

• Trim excess fat or connective tissue. While some fat is good for flavor and moisture, large chunks can cause flare-ups on the grill.

• Pat dry the chicken with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes better searing.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

A flavorful marinade is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with bold BBQ flavor.

Basic marinade ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice for brightness)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey (balances acidity with sweetness)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky depth)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (adjust to desired heat)

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until sugar dissolves.

2. Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.

3. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

4. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4–6 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).

• Clean the grates thoroughly with a grill brush to prevent sticking.

• Oil the grates lightly using a paper towel dipped in oil held with tongs. This also helps prevent sticking.

Step 4: Remove Chicken from Marinade and Let it Come to Room Temperature

• Take the chicken out of the marinade about 20–30 minutes before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature. This promotes even cooking.

• Discard leftover marinade or boil it for a few minutes if you want to use it as a baste (always cook marinade thoroughly if reusing).

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill.

2. Cook with the lid closed for about 5–6 minutes per side.

3. Flip only once or twice to develop a good sear and prevent tearing.

4. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tip: If the chicken is browning too quickly or if flare-ups occur, move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.

Step 6: Baste with BBQ Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

For a rich BBQ flavor, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling.

• Apply a thin layer of sauce on each side.

• Grill for an additional minute or two per side to caramelize the sauce without burning.

Step 7: Rest the Chicken

• Remove chicken from the grill and transfer to a plate.

• Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 5–10 minutes.

Why Rest? Resting allows juices to redistribute inside the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice or serve whole with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

• Pair with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, cornbread, or potato salad.

Additional Tips for Perfect Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Overnight is ideal.

• Avoid pressing down on chicken while grilling. This squeezes out juices.

• Use indirect heat if using a charcoal grill. Sear over direct heat, then move to cooler side to finish cooking.

• Experiment with wood chips. Adding soaked wood chips can infuse smoky flavors.

• Don’t overcook! Chicken thighs remain juicy up to about 175°F, but beyond that, they dry out.