Simple Grilled Chicken Thighs

5 from 8 votes

With a simple, versatile marinade, these grilled chicken thighs are tender, juicy and perfectly seared every time.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Lunch, Main Course, tips & tricks

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400℉) for 10 minutes.
While grill is preheating, marinate chicken thighs in balsamic, olive oil, and salt.
Use tongs to place chicken thighs in a single layer on the grill. Close the grill. Grill the first side for 5 minutes. Flip chicken with a sturdy metal spatula (a bit of sticking is expected). Grill chicken on the second side for 4-8 minutes until thighs register at least 165℉ in the thickest part.
Let chicken thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

You can make a half batch or a double batch (or even a triple)!
You can marinate chicken for up to an hour if preferred (but no more than that).
Balsamic and olive oil add subtly tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the chicken thighs. They also help tenderize the chicken and create great grill marks! Want a different flavor? Some other marinating and dry rub ideas are listed under Tips for Grilling Chicken Thighs!
You can use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless if preferred. You’ll likely need to add in a few minutes to the grilling time.