How Long Do You Grill Boneless Chicken Thighs?
When it comes to grilling, chicken thighs are a popular choice due to their juiciness and tender texture. Boneless chicken thighs, in particular, are a crowd-pleaser as they are easier to cook and tend to be more moist than their bone-in counterparts. But how long do you grill boneless chicken thighs, and what are the ideal temperatures and cooking times? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to these questions and provide you with some helpful tips for achieving perfectly grilled boneless chicken thighs.
Temperature and Grilling Time: The Basics
Before we dive into the specifics of grilling time and temperature, it’s essential to understand the fundamental cooking principles of boneless chicken thighs. When grilling, the chicken is exposed to direct heat, which sears the outside, locks in moisture, and cooks the interior. To achieve a perfectly cooked grilled boneless chicken thigh, you need to strike the right balance between temperature and time.
Cooking Temperatures
Here are the recommended internal cooking temperatures for boneless chicken thighs:
- 120°F (49°C) for medium-rare, when the meat is still juicy and slightly pink
- 135°F (57°C) for medium, with a hint of pink and a firmer texture
- 145°F (63°C) for well-done, fully cooked, and no longer pink
Grilling Times
Now, let’s discuss the grilling times for boneless chicken thighs. Keep in mind that the time will depend on the thickness of the chicken, the heat level, and your personal preference for doneness.
Thicker Thighs (1-1.5 inches or 2.5-3.8 cm)
- Preheated grill to 400°F (204°C):
- 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare
- 7-9 minutes per side for medium
- 9-11 minutes per side for well-done
- Preheated grill to 450°F (232°C):
- 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare
- 5-7 minutes per side for medium
- 7-9 minutes per side for well-done
Thinner Thighs (0.5-1 inch or 1.3-2.5 cm)
- Preheated grill to 400°F (204°C):
- 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare
- 5-7 minutes per side for medium
- 7-9 minutes per side for well-done
- Preheated grill to 450°F (232°C):
- 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare
- 4-6 minutes per side for medium
- 6-8 minutes per side for well-done
Important Notes:
- Make sure to rotate the chicken every 2-3 minutes to achieve even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached the recommended levels.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Additional Tips for Achieving Perfection
In addition to cooking temperature and time, there are a few other tips to help you achieve perfectly grilled boneless chicken thighs:
- Season the chicken: Use your favorite spices and herbs to add flavor before grilling.
- Marinate the chicken: For a few hours or overnight, marinating can help add depth and moisture.
- Oil the grates: Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.
- Monitor the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature and adjust the grilling time as needed.
Summary Table:
Here is a summary of the grilling times for boneless chicken thighs based on thickness and internal temperature:
Thickness (in inches or cm) | Medium-Rare | Medium | Well-Done |
---|---|---|---|
1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) | 10-14 minutes total | 14-18 minutes total | 18-22 minutes total |
1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) | 12-16 minutes total | 16-20 minutes total | 20-24 minutes total |
2-2.5 inches (5-6.4 cm) | 15-20 minutes total | 20-24 minutes total | 24-28 minutes total |
0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) | 6-10 minutes total | 10-14 minutes total | 14-18 minutes total |
1 inch (2.5 cm) | 8-12 minutes total | 12-16 minutes total | 16-20 minutes total |
In conclusion, grilling boneless chicken thighs is all about striking the right balance between temperature and time. By understanding the internal cooking temperatures, grilling times, and important notes, you can achieve perfectly grilled boneless chicken thighs with ease. Happy grilling!