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Crispy Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Juicy Budget-Friendly Meal

crispy grilled chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken thighs recipe that delivers crispy skin and juicy meat, perfect for budget-friendly meals and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1.5 to 2 pounds / 700900 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add olive oil and lemon juice, stirring to form a paste-like rub.
  3. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, including under the skin when possible. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the fridge.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 204°C). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes without moving to crisp the skin.
  6. Flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Serve hot, optionally sprinkled with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Avoid flipping the chicken too often to prevent tearing the skin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C). If flare-ups occur, move chicken to a cooler part of the grill. Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. For reheating leftovers, use a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

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