Barbecue enthusiasts, look no further! This how-to guide is tailored just for you, focusing on something we all love: perfectly grilled chicken thighs. The main question you might have is how long to cook chicken thigh on charcoal grill. Keep reading, as all your queries about cooking chicken thighs on a charcoal grill will be answered.

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The Basics of Grilling Chicken Thighs

When it comes to grilling chicken thighs, several factors can affect cooking time, including the size of the thighs, the temperature of your grill, and whether youre cooking with the bone-in or boneless variety.

Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

Before you start grilling, selecting the appropriate chicken thighs is essential. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and decide if you want bone-in or boneless thighs.

Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill

Proper grill setup is crucial for achieving evenly cooked chicken thighs. Here are the basics:

• Arrange the charcoal in a two-zone setup.
• Preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature (around 375-450F).
• Ensure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.

For a more detailed guide, check out this step-by-step grill setup guide.

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Cooking Time and Temperature

The most critical aspect of grilling chicken thighs is monitoring your cooking time and temperature. Here are your key milestones:

• Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Cook for about 30-35 minutes, flipping every 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Boneless Chicken Thighs: These cook faster, usually in 20-25 minutes, with frequent flipping.

Always rest your chicken for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Additional Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs

Consistency is key when it comes to grilling. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection:

• Use a marinade for added flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain a steady grill temperature to avoid burning.
• Tent the chicken with foil during the last 5 minutes of cooking for juicier meat.

FAQs

Should I use direct or indirect heat?

Using a combination of both is ideal. Start with direct heat to sear the outside, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.

How do I know when my chicken thighs are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should be 165F.

Can I add sauce while cooking?

Yes, but add it towards the end to prevent burning due to the high sugar content in most sauces.

To dive deeper into grilling techniques, check out specific guides on how long to flip burgers on a charcoal grill, how long to cook lobster tail on a charcoal grill, and even tips on grilling zucchini on a charcoal grill for a perfect BBQ spread.

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