Bobby Flay’s Juicy Chicken Thighs are super easy to make and full of flavor. These thighs are grilled to perfection, giving them that smoky taste we all love!
You won’t believe how juicy they are! I always make extra because they disappear so fast. Serve them with some rice or salad, and you’ll have a hit meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat juicy, but boneless thighs work too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless thighs can be used as well.
Kosher Salt: This helps to enhance the flavor. If you only have table salt, use less as it’s finer and saltier. Aim for about half the amount.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, though the taste will differ a bit.
Lemon Juice: This brightens up everything! If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can also do the trick.
Fresh Herbs: Optional but recommended for garnish. Fresh thyme or rosemary has great flavor, but dried herbs can be used as well—just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about drying the chicken and cooking it at the right temperature. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture that can prevent crisping.
- Preheating the grill is essential—medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F) will give you nice charred skin.
- Cook skin side down without moving them. This helps the skin get nice and crispy while developing flavor.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to settle, ensuring every bite is juicy and moist! Enjoy your cooking!
Bobby Flay’s Juicy Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill. So in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Drying the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is vital as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully when cooking!
2. Mixing the Seasonings:
Take a small bowl and mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This flavorful blend will give your chicken a delicious kick!
3. Seasoning the Chicken:
Rub the chicken thighs all over with olive oil. This not only helps the spices stick but also adds to the juiciness. Now, sprinkle your spice mixture evenly over each thigh, making sure to rub it in well.
4. Preheating the Grill:
Get your grill going by preheating it to medium-high heat—aim for about 375 to 400°F. This ensures the chicken cooks perfectly.
5. Grilling the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs skin side down on the hot grill. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes without moving them, allowing that skin to crisp up and develop nice grill marks.
6. Flipping and Finishing:
After 7-8 minutes, flip the thighs over and cook the other side for another 6-8 minutes. You want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
7. Adding Brightness:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the grill. Right away, sprinkle some fresh lemon juice over the top. This will give your chicken a fresh pop of flavor!
8. Letting It Rest:
Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key as it lets the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy.
9. Garnishing and Serving:
Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a beautiful touch. Serve the chicken hot and enjoy your delicious creation!
With this recipe, you’ll savor flavorful grilled chicken thighs just like Bobby Flay’s! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Bobby Flay’s Juicy Chicken Thighs Recipe
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but keep in mind they will cook faster. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work as substitutes. Just know that the flavor will be slightly different; smoked paprika adds a sweet, smoky taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, to keep them juicy.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the thighs for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep them refrigerated while marinating!
