Description
Juicy grilled boneless chicken thighs with a smoky dry rub and sticky-sweet BBQ sauce—perfect for weeknights or weekend cookouts.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless chicken thighs
¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry. Brush with oil on both sides. In a small bowl, mix the dry rub spices (onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt). Rub evenly over both sides of the chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Grill – Two-Zone Setup:
Charcoal Grill: Light coals and place on one side to create hot and cool zones. Preheat for 10–15 minutes.
Gas Grill: Turn one burner to medium-high and leave the other side off or low. Preheat with lid closed.
Sear the Chicken:
Place chicken thighs skin side down over direct heat. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks form.
Cook Through Indirect Heat:
Move chicken to the cooler side of the grill. Cover with lid and grill for 10–15 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Glaze and Finish:
Brush with barbecue sauce on both sides. Return to hot side and grill for 1–2 minutes per side until sauce caramelizes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve:
Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes. Optionally, brush with extra sauce before serving.
Notes
Oven Alternative: Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, then broil briefly to caramelize the sauce.
Marinating for just 30 minutes enhances flavor.
Clean/oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
An instant-read thermometer ensures perfect doneness.
Resting the meat helps retain juices.
Leftovers: Refrigerate for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat Options:
Oven: 350°F, covered, 15–20 minutes
Air Fryer: 350°F, 5–7 minutes
Microwave: 1–2 minutes, covered with damp paper towel
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
