Day: September 25, 2025

Flawlessly Grilled Chicken Thighs: An Exquisite Recipe Manual

Make perfectly **grilled chicken thighs** using this swift marinade that results in succulent, flavorful outcomes! My recipe is suitable for both bone-in and boneless thighs and will quickly become your go-to for effortless dinner ideas.

Welcome to your new go-to meal: tender grilled chicken thighs! Alex and I endeavored to develop the ultimate method for grilling thighs, and here it is. The key is my unique quick marinade, which achieves an impressive blend of tangy, savory, and smoky tastes.

You can prepare either grilled boneless chicken thighs or bone-in with this method, or a combination of both. Recently, I thought to pair it with creamy [tzatziki sauce](https://www.acouplecooks.com/tzatziki-sauce/) and [pickled red onions](https://www.acouplecooks.com/pickled-red-onions/), and *wow*, it made for an astonishingly simple dinner. Here are all my suggestions and techniques for the best grilled chicken thighs ever!

## Grilled chicken thighs: boneless vs bone-in

To prepare grilled chicken thighs, you’ll need 8 large or 12 small to accommodate 4 servings. Many chefs and culinary professionals assert that chicken thighs are the finest cut of poultry, so you’re in for a delight! They contain more fat than chicken breasts, lending them a deeper, richer flavor compared to white meat. This recipe is effective for both grilled boneless chicken thighs and bone-in, skin-on options:

– **Bone-in, skin-on thighs deliver the best taste.** Cooking chicken with the bone ensures that the flavors from within the bone infuse into the meat, resulting in a meatier, fuller flavor. Additionally, the skin turns crispy and flavorful.
– **Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are also an option, and they’re simpler to eat.** They also grill up nicely and require slightly less cooking time.

## My transformative marinade

My [chicken thigh marinade](https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-thigh-marinade/) distinguishes these thighs from any you’ve tasted before. Rather than a conventional liquid marinade that can slip off the chicken, I formulated a thicker, paste-like blend that adheres closely. Here’s what makes it exceptional:

– **Dijon mustard** serves both as a flavor booster and tenderizer, also aiding the seasonings in adhering to the chicken.
– **Worcestershire sauce** brings in that vital umami richness that makes people ask, “what IS that fantastic taste?”
– **Fresh lemon juice** perks everything up and aids in breaking down the proteins for peak tenderness.
– A spice combination of **smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme** builds layers of taste that enhance the chicken’s inherent richness without overwhelming it. I’ve discovered this mix works well whether you’re serving the chicken with Mediterranean sides like my [Greek salad](https://www.acouplecooks.com/greek-salad/) or aiming for a classic American barbecue feel with [coleslaw](https://www.acouplecooks.com/best-coleslaw-recipe/) and [potato salad](https://www.acouplecooks.com/potato-salad/).

### Pro tip

When applying the marinade to skin-on thighs, use your fingers to work some of the mixture beneath the skin. This ensures that the flavors infuse directly into the meat, resulting in exceptionally seasoned chicken.

## How long to grill chicken thighs

The duration for grilling chicken thighs varies based on their size and whether they are bone-in or boneless. **At medium-high heat, small chicken thighs take 9 to 11 minutes to grill, and large thighs take 10 to 13 minutes**, with boneless at the shorter end of each duration. Here’s how to grill chicken thighs:

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 450°F).
2. Grill the thighs smooth side down until grill marks show and they lift from the grates, around 5 to 6 minutes for small thighs and 6 to 8 for large thighs. Flip and cook until internal temperature hits 165°F, about 4 to 5 minutes.
3. Transfer to a platter and cover with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes for utmost juiciness.

## A note on organic chicken

For this dish, you’ll require 8 large or 12 small chicken thighs to generously serve 4 individuals. I always opt for organic chicken when possible—not only does it taste superior, but in accordance with [USDA standards](https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means#:~:text=As%20for%20organic%20meat%2C%20regulations,not%20administered%20antibiotics%20or%20hormones.), organic chicken is raised

Best Chopped Salad Recipe

This simple chopped salad recipe highlights homemade Italian dressing, crunchy vegetables, and Parmesan cheese for the perfect side dish. Prepared in only 20 minutes with remarkable flavor!

Searching for a side salad to pair with all your dishes? I’m always on the lookout for an excellent green salad. So, may I introduce my favorite chopped salad recipe.

It’s elegant and concise. It begins with my homemade Italian dressing: zesty, savory, and herby. Add shallots, tomatoes, cucumber, and a kick from pepperoncini. Parmesan cheese completes the dish. Every time I serve this to guests or family, they request the recipe (no kidding!).

Why this chopped salad recipe is effective

Whenever I present this salad at a gathering, people inquire: Wow! What’s in this salad? That’s when you realize a recipe is a gem!

I’ve experimented with numerous salad recipes over the years, and this one has become a family and reader favorite. The secret is in the ingredient harmony and my zesty homemade Italian dressing recipe that transforms ordinary vegetables into something remarkable.

Key ingredients for the ideal chopped salad

– Lettuce base: I use 1 romaine heart and 5 cups of leafy lettuce for a texture contrast. Romaine gives crunch while softer lettuce imparts volume.
– Vegetables: I always opt for English cucumber: I favor these since they are mostly seedless and the skin has a mild taste. I add halved cherry tomatoes and a large shallot for a hint of onion flavor.
– Flavor boosters: The star ingredient is jarred sliced pepperoncini for spicy tang, and don’t forget the ripe green olives for briny saltiness along with fresh Parmesan cheese shavings. I prefer Castelvetrano olives for their gentle flavor.

Dressing tips

I whip the dressing by hand using a large whisk in a medium bowl: the bowl size is crucial to achieve the best emulsion. The trick is to incorporate the olive oil tablespoon by tablespoon while whisking continuously. The Dijon mustard in the dressing also aids in emulsifying it.

The flavor profile combines tangy white wine vinegar with a dash of maple syrup, plus dried herbs. I frequently make a double batch since this dressing lasts well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Serving suggestions for chopped salad

This adaptable chopped salad complements both weeknight meals and dinner parties where you wish to impress. Here are some serving ideas:

For a more filling meal, I sometimes transform this into a main dish salad by adding pan-seared chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or marinated white beans.

Storage and prep-ahead advice

This chopped salad is best enjoyed fresh, but I’ve found some hacks for meal prep:

– Same-day serving: Prepare all vegetables and dressing separately up to 4 hours in advance. Store vegetables covered in the refrigerator and bring the dressing to room temperature prior to assembling.
– Meal prep: The separate components keep well for 2-3 days when stored correctly. Keep lettuce washed and chopped in a salad spinner, and store other chopped vegetables in different containers.

Dietary information

This chopped salad recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free option, leave out the Parmesan cheese. (It’s still just as delicious!)

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best method to chop vegetables evenly? I use a sharp chef’s knife aiming for ½-inch pieces. Taking your time with preparation makes a significant difference in the final look.

Can I replace the homemade dressing with store-bought? While you can use bottled Italian dressing, I highly recommend trying the homemade version: it makes this salad special and takes just 5 minutes to prepare.

How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy? Always ensure your lettuce is thoroughly dried and add dressing right before serving. If serving at an event, I keep the dressing on the side and allow guests to add their own.

Favorite Chopped Salad

This chopped salad will wow everyone at the table! Homemade Italian dressing, vegetables, and Parmesan cheese come together into one remarkable salad.

Author: Sonja Overhiser
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Salad
Method: Raw
Cuisine: Italian Inspired

Ingredients:
– 1 recipe Homemade Italian Dressing
– 1 Romaine heart (3 cups)
– 5 cups leafy lettuce
– 1 large shallot
– 1 English cucumber (2 cups chopped)
– ½ cup cherry tomatoes
– ½ cup ripe green olives, halved
– ½ cup jarred sliced pepperoncini
– ¼ cup Parmesan shavings or shreds, plus more to serve
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Homemade Italian Dressing.
2. Chop romaine and lettuce. Thinly slice the shallot. Peel and chop the cucumber. Halve the tomatoes and olives.
3. Combine all the ingredients.