12 Easy BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes For Juicy, Smoky Perfection—When it comes to BBQ, chicken thighs are the perfect cut of meat to achieve that ideal balance of crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. The richness of chicken thighs paired with smoky BBQ flavors makes for a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress. Whether you prefer a classic BBQ rub, a tangy glaze, or a spicy kick, these 12 easy BBQ chicken thigh recipes will elevate your grilling game and bring your summer cookouts to the next level.
Each of these recipes is designed to make grilling chicken thighs a breeze, ensuring juicy, tender meat with just the right amount of smoky char. Whether you’re cooking on a gas grill, charcoal, or even in the oven, these recipes will deliver perfect results every time. With a variety of flavors—from sweet and smoky to tangy and spicy—there’s a BBQ chicken thigh recipe for every palate.
Maple Mustard Glazed Thighs
Maple Mustard Glazed Thighs are a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of maple syrup and the tang of mustard. This easy-to-follow recipe results in juicy, flavorful chicken thighs that are perfect for any BBQ gathering. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky, savory finish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also cooks quickly on the grill or in the oven. Just marinate the thighs, brush on the glaze, and let the magic happen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering combination!
Spicy Chipotle Glazed Thighs
These Spicy Chipotle Glazed Thighs are a fantastic way to bring some heat to your BBQ. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers and a touch of sweetness creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to impress at your next cookout.
The marinade is quick to whip up, making it simple to prep ahead of time. Whether you’re grilling on a sunny afternoon or hosting a cozy dinner, these thighs will be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced chipotle peppers, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish. Pour the marinade over the thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill heated to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Thighs: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the thighs skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken thighs soak up a rich teriyaki sauce, while the grilled pineapple adds a tropical twist that balances the dish perfectly. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, ideal for any BBQ gathering.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time. The combination of tender chicken and caramelized pineapple is irresistible and will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Grill the Pineapple: While the chicken is cooking, place the pineapple slices on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized and slightly charred.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Serve the chicken thighs topped with grilled pineapple and sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs are a tasty and simple dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The honey adds a delightful sweetness while the garlic brings a rich depth to the marinade. Cooking chicken thighs in this way results in juicy, tender meat that’s bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for any BBQ or family dinner.
This recipe is easy to make and perfect for those busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, and olive oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, basting with the leftover marinade until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Rub Thighs
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Rub Thighs are a delightful way to enjoy juicy chicken with a perfect blend of flavors. The rub combines brown sugar, smoked paprika, and spices to create a savory crust that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Each bite is a harmony of sweetness and smokiness, with tender, juicy meat that keeps you coming back for more. Pair it with a fresh side salad or classic coleslaw, and you’re set for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- BBQ sauce for basting
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Drizzle olive oil on the grill grates to prevent sticking, then place the seasoned chicken on the grill.
- Grill the thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing from the grill.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Lemon Herb Marinade Chicken Thighs
Lemon Herb Marinade Chicken Thighs bring a burst of fresh flavor to your BBQ table. The tangy lemon combined with fragrant herbs creates a delightful marinade that makes the chicken juicy and flavorful. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering with friends.
The bright citrus notes from the lemon beautifully complement the savory taste of the chicken, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. Plus, marinating the thighs allows the flavors to infuse deeply, ensuring each piece is a treat. Let’s get into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your juicy, smoky lemon herb chicken thighs!
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken Thighs
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken Thighs are a deliciously simple dish that marries the juicy goodness of chicken thighs with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout, providing a smoky and savory meal that everyone will love. The garlic adds a rich aroma, while the Parmesan cheese gives a crispy finish that takes this dish to the next level.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also requires minimal prep time, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Grilling the chicken thighs ensures they remain juicy and tender, while the BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a lovely glaze. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty dish!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, coating them thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using charcoal, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Add the Cheese: In the last couple of minutes of cooking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the chicken thighs. Close the lid to help melt the cheese.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cajun Blackened Chicken Thighs
Cajun Blackened Chicken Thighs bring a burst of flavor to your table with their spicy, smoky goodness. This dish is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with Cajun spices, these thighs are seared to perfection, offering a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends for a BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of herbs and spices creates a delightful taste that pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or grilled vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and blackened.
- Flip the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Mediterranean Olive Oil and Herb Chicken Thighs
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe brings together the rich flavors of olive oil, fresh herbs, and tender chicken thighs for a delightful meal that’s both juicy and satisfying. The marinade is simple, making it easy to prepare, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.
The chicken thighs soak up the zesty garlic and herb blend, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavor. Pairing perfectly with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the thighs for about 7-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
BBQ Bourbon Glazed Chicken Thighs
BBQ Bourbon Glazed Chicken Thighs bring together sweet and smoky flavors that are sure to impress anyone at your next cookout. The marinade, infused with bourbon, adds a rich depth that complements the juiciness of the chicken thighs perfectly. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a deliciously caramelized finish when grilled.
Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these chicken thighs are a breeze to make. Simply marinate, grill, and enjoy the mouthwatering results that are perfect for any summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Asian Ginger Soy Chicken Thighs
Asian Ginger Soy Chicken Thighs bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish combines savory soy sauce, zesty ginger, and a hint of sweetness, creating a tasty balance that’s hard to resist. The chicken thighs turn juicy and tender, making them perfect for grilling or baking.
Not only is this recipe packed with flavor, but it’s also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Serve these chicken thighs over rice or with your favorite vegetables to complete the dish.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, ginger, honey, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve over rice or with vegetables.
Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs
Smoky paprika chicken thighs bring a deliciously smoky flavor to your grill. The mix of spices creates a deep, rich taste that pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is simple, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to impress their guests.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these flavorful thighs in no time. They are perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to ash over.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Conclusion
These 12 Easy BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes For Juicy, Smoky Perfection offer a delightful range of flavors that will satisfy any BBQ lover. Chicken thighs are not only incredibly flavorful but also forgiving, making them a great choice for beginners and seasoned grill masters alike. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a picnic, these recipes will ensure your chicken thighs are always a crowd-pleaser. So fire up the grill, get the sauce ready, and enjoy the unbeatable smoky goodness that only BBQ chicken thighs can provide!
