Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs (Juicy & Easy!)

These Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs are marinated to perfection and bursting with smoky flavor from the grill.

Whether you cook them outside or bake them in the oven, they turn out tender, juicy, and completely irresistible.

Ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra juicy thanks to the marinade and dark meat.

Easy to make on the grill or in the oven.

Bold BBQ flavor that caramelizes beautifully.

Great for feeding a crowd or meal prep.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Chicken thighs – Boneless, skinless thighs stay moist and tender on the grill.

Seasonings – Sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Mrs. Dash for a simple but bold rub.

Mayonnaise – Helps seal in moisture and aids in browning.

Onion – Thick slices add flavor during marinating.

BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite variety for brushing and finishing.

Pro Tips for Success

Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.

Use real mayonnaise, not a substitute.

Brush with BBQ sauce near the end to prevent burning.

Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep juices inside.

How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry. Season both sides with sea salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash, and garlic powder.

Add 1 tablespoon mayonnaise and toss to coat. Mix in thick onion slices.

Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill and brush the grates with oil.

Reduce heat to low and place thighs smooth-side up. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes.

Baste with BBQ sauce before flipping.

Step 3: Finish Grilling
Flip the thighs, baste the other side, and cook for another 12–15 minutes.

Make cross-hatch marks if desired.

Check for doneness by slicing into the thickest part — juices should run clear.

Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once done, brush with more BBQ sauce and let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Baking Option (Oven Method)

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400˚F.

Place marinated chicken thighs on a large rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 2: Bake for 30 minutes.

Increase heat to 450˚F, brush with BBQ sauce, and bake another 5 minutes until glaze is set.

Serving Ideas

Pair with grilled corn and baked beans for a summer BBQ plate.

Slice and serve over a salad with ranch dressing.

Tuck into sandwiches with pickles and coleslaw.

Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for comfort food vibes.

Variations & Swaps

Swap chicken thighs for breasts or drumsticks (adjust cooking time).

Use smoky chipotle BBQ sauce for a spicy twist.

Add paprika or chili powder for deeper flavor.

Grill with applewood chips for extra smokiness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes! Just increase grilling or baking time by 10–15 minutes.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use your favorite — sweet, spicy, smoky, or tangy all work well.

Can I skip the mayonnaise?
You can, but it helps with moisture and browning.

Can I marinate longer than overnight?
Up to 24 hours is fine, but don’t go beyond that or the texture may change.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, grill and store for easy meals later in the week.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
It should reach 165°F (74°C) internally and the juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs are my go-to when I need something crowd-pleasing and flavorful.

Whether it’s a summer cookout or just a Tuesday dinner, the smoky, sticky, juicy goodness never fails to impress.