Cook Juicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Perfectly Every Time

Grilling chicken thighs on a BBQ grill is a backyard favorite. 

They’re juicy, flavorful, and easy to make — when you know the right steps. 

Whether you're using gas or charcoal, this guide will help you get that tender inside and crispy outside every time.

Let’s fire it up!

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Why Chicken Thighs Are Great for BBQ

Chicken thighs are forgiving. 

Unlike breasts, they have more fat, which means more flavor and less risk of drying out. 

Bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless — they all work great on the grill. 

You just need the right method.

Prepping the Chicken Thighs

Start with trimming any excess fat or hanging skin. 

You don’t need to remove the skin — it helps lock in moisture and adds crisp texture when grilled right.

Marinate or Dry Rub?

Both work. 

A marinade helps tenderize and add deep flavor. 

Try olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a quick one. 

If you're in a hurry, a dry rub with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder is enough.

Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).

Gas Grill vs Charcoal Grill

Gas Grill:

Set two heat zones — high heat on one side, low on the other. 

Start thighs skin-side down on high for sear, then move to low to cook through.

Charcoal Grill:

Bank coals to one side. 

Use the hot zone to sear, then finish cooking on the cooler side with the lid closed.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (use a meat thermometer). 

For extra tenderness, aim for 175–185°F for bone-in thighs — they become buttery soft.

Bonus Tip for Better Grilling: Before you fire up the grill, learn the essential tricks in How to Keep Food from Sticking to Grill Grates to ensure a perfect sear every time.

Grilling Instructions (Step-by-Step)

• Preheat the grill to medium-high (around 400°F).

• Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

• Place thighs skin-side down over direct heat. Sear for 3–5 minutes.

• Flip and move to indirect heat. Close lid.

• Cook 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Check internal temp. Remove when they hit 165°F–185°F.

• Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip for Grill Maintenance

Grilling chicken often leads to sticky messes on your grates. 

That’s why it helps to keep your grill clean before and after cooking.

Instead of wire brushes (which can shed dangerous bristles), try a bristle-free grill scraper like the Easy Function Grill Scraper. 

It fits most grills, works while the grates are still hot, and keeps your food safe and your grill spotless.

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Bone-In vs Boneless Chicken Thighs

• Bone-in, skin-on: More flavor, crispier finish. Takes longer to cook.

• Boneless, skinless: Cooks faster. Easier to eat in sandwiches or tacos.

Either way, don't skip the rest time after grilling — it lets the juices settle so every bite stays moist.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Thighs

• Grilled corn on the cob

• Coleslaw

• Baked beans

• Potato salad

• Grilled veggies

And don’t forget a good BBQ sauce on the side. 

Serve it warm so it glazes the chicken just right.

Final Tips

• Always use a thermometer. Don’t guess.

• Let the chicken rest — it’s crucial.

• Keep one side of the grill cooler to prevent burning.

Grilling is all about control and timing — and once you master chicken thighs, you’ll never look back.

Ready to grill smarter, not harder?

Click the image below to check out our BBQ tools — and explore our full range of Easy Function products made for backyard chefs like you.