Barbecued chicken thighs are a summer staple, offering juicy, flavorful meat that's perfect for grilling. But knowing exactly how long to cook them can be tricky. This guide will walk you through achieving perfectly cooked BBQ chicken thighs every time, regardless of your grill type.
Understanding BBQ Chicken Thigh Cooking Times
The cooking time for BBQ chicken thighs depends on several factors:
- Thickness of the thighs: Thicker thighs will require longer cooking times than thinner ones.
- Temperature of your grill: A hotter grill will cook the chicken faster, while a lower temperature will require a longer cooking time. Aim for medium heat (around 350-400°F).
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in thighs will take longer to cook than boneless, skinless thighs.
- Your desired level of doneness: Do you prefer your chicken juicy and slightly pink inside, or completely cooked through?
Bone-in Chicken Thighs Cooking Time
For bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, expect cooking times to range from 45-60 minutes. However, it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don't solely rely on time; temperature is the key to food safety.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Cooking Time
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook much faster. Plan on grilling these for 25-35 minutes, again checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Brining or Marinating: Marinating your chicken thighs for several hours (or even overnight) before grilling will enhance the flavor and keep the meat juicy.
- Preheating your grill: Ensure your grill is properly preheated before placing the chicken thighs on the grates. This helps to achieve even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Using a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to determine if your chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
- Indirect heat: For even cooking and preventing burning, consider using indirect heat on your grill. This means placing the chicken thighs over an area of the grill that's not directly above the heat source.
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give your chicken thighs enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding will lower the grill temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Basting: Regularly basting your chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking adds flavor and keeps them moist.
Troubleshooting BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Chicken is burning: Reduce the grill temperature or move the chicken to a cooler area of the grill.
- Chicken is undercooked: Increase the grill temperature or continue cooking for a longer period, checking the internal temperature regularly.
- Chicken is dry: Ensure you're using a meat thermometer and cooking to the correct temperature. Marinating or brining beforehand can also help.
Remember: Always prioritize food safety. Using a meat thermometer and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) is crucial to prevent foodborne illness. Enjoy your perfectly cooked BBQ chicken thighs!
