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Hickory brown sugar BBQ chicken cooked on the grill.

How to BBQ Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs on the Grill

Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled, these BBQ boneless skinless chicken thighs are an easy and delicious option for any backyard cookout!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 5 servings

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Since the BBQ sauce packs a lot of flavor, you only need a little salt and pepper. Sprinkle both sides of each thigh with salt and pepper.
  • Allow the seasoned chicken to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the grill. This helps it cook more evenly.
  • Gas grill: Preheat to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Turn one side to medium-high and leave the other side on low to create a two-zone cooking setup.
    Charcoal grill: Arrange the coals on one side of the grill to create a hot zone and a cooler zone for indirect cooking.
  • Place the chicken thighs on the hot side of the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks.
  • After searing, transfer the thighs to the cooler side of the grill. This allows them to cook through without burning.
  • Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check.
  • Brush the BBQ sauce onto the chicken during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking. Flip and brush again every couple of minutes to build up a sticky, caramelized glaze. Sugar in BBQ sauce can burn quickly, so keep an eye out and move the chicken if needed.
  • Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Pair with grilled veggies, coleslaw, or bacon wrapped asparagus for a perfect BBQ meal!

Notes

Tips for Success

  • Don’t sauce too early – BBQ sauce contains sugar that burns easily. Always wait until the last few minutes.
  • Use a meat thermometer – This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
  • Experiment with flavors – Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra depth.
Keyword bbq, Boneless, chicken, grill, Grilled, Hickory, Juicy, moist, sauce, Skinless, Sticky, Sweet, thighs