Grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill is a favorite for many backyard chefs, thanks to their juicy flavor and crispy skin. But getting the timing just right can be tricky if you want tender meat without drying it out. Knowing how long to BBQ chicken thighs on a gas grill ensures you serve up perfectly cooked pieces every time.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griller, understanding the ideal cooking time and temperature will boost your confidence at the grill. In this guide, you’ll learn the key factors that affect grilling time and how to achieve that mouthwatering balance of char and juiciness. Get ready to impress your friends and family with chicken thighs cooked to perfection.
Understanding Chicken Thighs for BBQ
Grilling chicken thighs requires knowing the differences in their types. These differences affect cooking time, texture, and flavor on your gas grill.
Bone-In vs. Boneless Thighs
Bone-in thighs take longer to cook because the bone slows heat transfer, usually needing 25 to 30 minutes at medium heat (350°F to 400°F). The bone also helps retain moisture, keeping the meat juicy. Boneless thighs cook faster, about 15 to 20 minutes, since direct heat reaches the meat more quickly. They grill evenly but risk drying out if left too long. Choosing between bone-in and boneless affects your grilling schedule and desired juiciness.
Skin-On vs. Skinless Thighs
Skin-on thighs provide crispy, flavorful skin when grilled, requiring care to avoid flare-ups from dripping fat. Cook skin-side down first to render fat and crisp the skin, taking roughly 25 to 30 minutes total. Skinless thighs grill faster and reduce flare-up risk but lack that crispy texture. They also lose some fat content, changing the flavor profile and possibly drying out if cooking time exceeds 20 minutes. Your choice determines grilling technique and the balance between crispiness and convenience.
Preparing Chicken Thighs for the Grill
Proper preparation ensures juicy, flavorful chicken thighs on a gas grill. Follow these steps to enhance taste and achieve even cooking.
Marinating and Seasoning Tips
Use marinades with acid components like lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize meat. Let chicken thighs marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours, to maximize flavor absorption without breaking down texture. Apply dry rubs containing salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly across the thighs for a balanced taste. Pat skin dry before seasoning to achieve crispiness during grilling.
Preheating the Gas Grill
Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). Let the grill run for 10 to 15 minutes with the lid closed to ensure even heat distribution. Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Maintain consistent temperature throughout grilling by adjusting burners as needed.
How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs on a Gas Grill
Mastering the cooking time of chicken thighs on a gas grill ensures juicy, flavorful results. Understanding temperature control and timing for different thigh types helps you grill with precision.
Ideal Temperature Settings
Set your gas grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). This temperature sears the chicken skin, locking in moisture while cooking the meat evenly. Avoid higher heat to prevent burning skin and flare-ups that dry out the meat.
Cooking Time for Bone-In Thighs
Grill bone-in chicken thighs for 25 to 30 minutes. Turn them every 5 to 7 minutes to promote even cooking and avoid burning. This timing allows the bone to conduct heat thoroughly, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Cooking Time for Boneless Thighs
Grill boneless chicken thighs for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through to achieve uniform cooking. Their smaller size shortens cooking time but demands close attention to prevent drying out.
Checking for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness precisely. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part without touching bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thigh; clear juices indicate proper cooking. Avoid cutting too early to retain moisture.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs
Achieving juicy, flavorful chicken thighs on a gas grill requires attention to detail and technique. These tips help you master flare-up control, cooking precision, and optimal resting.
Managing Flare-Ups and Avoiding Burning
Monitor the grill closely for flare-ups caused by dripping fat from skin-on thighs. Use indirect heat zones by turning off burners beneath the chicken while keeping adjacent burners on medium-high, so the thighs cook without charring. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to quickly tame small flames without cooling the grill too much. Flip the thighs every 5 to 7 minutes to prevent one side from burning and promote even cooking. Trim excess fat from the thighs before grilling to reduce flare-up frequency and intensity.
Resting Time After Grilling
Rest the chicken thighs for 5 to 10 minutes after removing them from the grill. This step allows juices to redistribute evenly, enhancing tenderness and moisture retention. Tent the thighs loosely with aluminum foil during resting to keep them warm while preventing steam buildup that can soften crispy skin. Avoid cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling to preserve its juiciness and flavor profile.
Conclusion
Mastering the timing and temperature for grilling chicken thighs on your gas grill sets you up for juicy, flavorful results every time. Paying attention to the type of thigh you’re cooking and using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is safe and perfectly cooked.
By managing flare-ups and allowing your thighs to rest before serving, you’ll keep the skin crispy and the meat tender. With these tips, you’re ready to elevate your grilling game and impress everyone at your next cookout.