This chicken thigh marinade is a game changer! It’s full of yummy flavors that make the chicken juicy and tasty. Just a mix of simple ingredients, and you’re ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking. If you prefer, you can use skinless thighs or chicken breasts, but cook them carefully to avoid drying out.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and richness. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or any neutral oil like canola. Just stay away from oils with strong flavors that might overshadow the marinade.
Soy Sauce: It brings umami and saltiness. For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari or coconut aminos. I also like using low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the marinade. Maple syrup is a good substitute if honey isn’t available or if you’re vegan.
Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano can replace dried if you have it on hand! Just use about three times more fresh than dried for that extra burst of flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs to perfection takes a bit of care. The key is to ensure they cook evenly and stay moist. Here are some simple steps:
- Let your chicken marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is best for deep flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve a great sear.
- Place the chicken skin-side down first to get that crispiness. Flip only once or twice.
- Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy!
Delicious Chicken Thigh Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour (or even better, overnight) to marinate in the fridge. Then, it will take about 12-16 minutes to cook on the grill. Overall, plan for about 1 hour for marinating and 20 minutes for cooking. Easy and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Pour in the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely combined. This wonderful mixture is what will add flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, take your chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the tasty marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated well. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly, and if it’s a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or better yet, leave it overnight. This way, the chicken will soak up all the flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade, throwing away any leftover marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Let It Rest:
After grilling, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy and delicious! Serve it up with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a few lemon slices for a bright and fresh touch. Enjoy your flavorful chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit quicker, so grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No problem! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. While the flavor may change slightly, it will still add a nice tang to your marinade!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, even an hour will help, but the longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
Can I Store Leftover Cooked Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can store leftover cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Enjoy them in salads, sandwiches, or as part of another meal!
