How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs on a Gas Grill Perfectly

Grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill is a favorite way to enjoy juicy flavorful meat with that perfect smoky char. But getting the timing right can make all the difference between tender bites and dry overcooked chicken. You want to know exactly how long to BBQ chicken thighs so they’re cooked through yet remain juicy.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griller looking to fine-tune your technique, understanding the ideal cooking time and temperature is key. With the right timing, you’ll impress family and friends with deliciously grilled chicken every time. Let’s dive into how long you should BBQ chicken thighs on your gas grill for mouthwatering results.

Understanding Chicken Thighs for Grilling

Grasping the characteristics of chicken thighs helps you grill them perfectly. Knowing the differences and qualities guides you in choosing the right cut and cooking method.

Types of Chicken Thighs: Bone-In vs. Boneless

Bone-in chicken thighs take 30 to 40 minutes to grill on medium heat (350°F to 375°F), offering richer flavor and moisture retention due to the bone. Boneless thighs cook faster, usually between 12 to 15 minutes at the same temperature, providing convenience but less juiciness. You must adjust cooking time based on thickness and grill heat, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Why Chicken Thighs Are Ideal for BBQ

Chicken thighs contain higher fat content than breasts, which keeps them moist during grilling. Their dark meat responds well to smoky flavors and can handle higher heat without drying out. You get tender, juicy results with a well-developed char, making thighs suitable for direct and indirect grilling techniques. Their forgiving nature suits both novices and seasoned grillers aiming for flavorful barbecue.

Preparing Chicken Thighs for the Gas Grill

Preparing chicken thighs properly ensures even cooking and the best flavor. Follow these steps to get your chicken ready for the grill.

Marinating and Seasoning Tips

Choose marinades that combine acid, oil, and spices to tenderize and enhance flavor. Examples include citrus juice with olive oil and garlic or soy sauce with ginger and brown sugar. Marinate chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours to let flavors penetrate without breaking down the meat too much. Apply dry rubs, such as paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, evenly on all sides when you want a crispy exterior and smoky taste. Pat thighs dry before seasoning to improve browning and prevent flare-ups.

Preheating and Setting Up Your Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to a medium heat range of 350°F to 375°F for bone-in thighs or slightly higher for boneless cuts. Use a two-zone setup by adjusting burners to create direct and indirect heat zones, allowing you to sear thighs over direct heat and finish cooking over indirect heat. Clean grill grates with a wire brush and oil them using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Close the lid and let the grill reach temperature before placing chicken thighs on the grate.

How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs on a Gas Grill

Grilling chicken thighs on a gas grill requires precise timing to achieve juicy, flavorful results. Cooking times vary between bone-in and boneless thighs and depend on several factors that affect heat penetration and moisture retention.

Timing for Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs take approximately 30 to 40 minutes to grill at medium heat (350°F to 375°F). Cook them over indirect heat to avoid flare-ups and promote even cooking. Flip every 5 to 7 minutes to develop a uniform char and prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure doneness.

Timing for Boneless Chicken Thighs

Boneless chicken thighs require about 12 to 15 minutes on a preheated grill set to medium heat (350°F to 375°F). Grill them directly over the heat and flip once halfway through cooking. Because they cook faster than bone-in thighs, monitor closely to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the meat. Verify doneness by reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Factors That Affect Cooking Time

1. Grill Temperature: Higher heat shortens cooking time but increases flare-up risk. Keep the grill at medium heat for best results.
2. Thigh Size and Thickness: Larger or thicker thighs take longer to cook; adjust timing accordingly.
3. Marinade and Moisture Content: Wet marinades can cause flare-ups and extend cooking time slightly.
4. Grill Setup: Two-zone setups with direct and indirect heat zones allow better temperature control and slower cooking for bone-in thighs.
5. Chicken Temperature Before Grilling: Let thighs come to room temperature before grilling to reduce cooking time variability.

Checking for Doneness and Serving Tips

Accurately determining doneness ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken thighs. Follow these techniques to check internal temperature and enhance flavor before serving.

Using a Meat Thermometer

Use a digital meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding bone contact. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 165°F for poultry safety. Insert the thermometer near the bone for bone-in thighs and center for boneless ones. If the temperature reads below 165°F, continue grilling and test every 3 to 5 minutes until the safe temperature is reached. Relying on visual cues alone risks undercooking or overcooking.

Resting Time Before Serving

Allow chicken thighs to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after grilling. Resting lets juices redistribute evenly within the meat, enhancing moisture and flavor. Cover the thighs loosely with foil to keep them warm without steaming the skin. Serving immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in drier meat. Enjoy the texture and taste benefits produced by proper resting.

Conclusion

Mastering the timing for grilling chicken thighs on your gas grill lets you serve juicy and flavorful meals every time. Paying attention to factors like cut type, grill temperature, and using a meat thermometer ensures safe and delicious results. With these tips, you can confidently impress your guests with perfectly cooked chicken thighs that have that ideal balance of smoky char and tender juiciness.