Grilled chicken thighs have a delicious and distinct flavor, with a slightly charred and smoky taste from the grilling process. The meat is juicy and tender, with a firm texture that is not too tough or too soft. The skin, when left on, can be crispy and adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. The combination of the seasoning and the cooking method makes grilled chicken thighs a popular and tasty choice for a variety of dishes.
Jump to RecipeHow to Choose Fresh Chicken Thighs
When selecting fresh chicken thighs, look for thighs that have a pinkish color and avoid those with any gray or brown spots or discoloration. The skin should be smooth and free of bruises or cuts. Check the expiration or sell-by date to ensure the chicken is fresh.
If possible, choose chicken that has been raised without antibiotics or hormones. It’s also important to purchase chicken from a reputable supplier or store that follows safe food handling practices.
How to Store Fresh Chicken Thighs
To store fresh raw chicken thighs, it’s important to keep them at a temperature that will slow down the growth of bacteria. As soon as you bring the chicken home, place it in a plastic bag to prevent any juices from leaking onto other foods in your refrigerator. Store the chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at 32-39°F (0-4°C).
Make sure the chicken is properly sealed or covered to prevent contamination. Use the chicken within 1-2 days, or freeze it for longer storage. When thawing frozen chicken, do so in the refrigerator or in cold water, and never at room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 8 boneless chicken thighs
Seasoning
- 6 tbsp. bbq rub
- 2 cups bbq sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and dry the chicken thighs.
- Coat generously with BBQ rub.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush half the BBQ sauce onto the seasoned chicken. Set remaining BBQ sauce aside for basting.
Cook
- Spray the grates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the reserved BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs, flipping them once to ensure even coating.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 530mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 21g
How to Store Grilled Chicken Thighs
To store cooked grilled chicken thighs, allow them to cool down to room temperature first. Then, store them in a covered container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Use the chicken within 3-4 days.
If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in freezer paper or heavy-duty foil for up to 2-3 months. Proper storage will help maintain the flavor and texture of the chicken and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
How to Reheat Grilled Chicken Thighs
To reheat cooked grilled chicken thighs, it’s best to do so gently to avoid overcooking or drying out the meat. One way to do this is to place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can heat the chicken gently in a skillet on low heat, with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Be careful not to overheat or cook the chicken for too long, as this can cause it to become dry and lose its flavor.
What are Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a cut of meat from the lower part of a chicken’s leg, located between the drumstick and the chicken’s body. They are dark meat and tend to be more flavorful and moist compared to chicken breast.
Chicken thighs are often used in a variety of dishes and can be cooked through different methods, such as grilling, baking, or frying. They are a popular choice for many recipes due to their versatility and relatively low cost.
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