Description
This Thai Chicken Thighs recipe offers a vibrant and aromatic grilled chicken experience, infused with fresh herbs, tangy lime, and umami-rich fish sauce. Perfectly marinated and grilled to juicy perfection, it makes an ideal main dish for gatherings or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Herb Marinade
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped Thai basil leaves
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons canola oil (divided)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine chopped fresh cilantro, Thai basil, thinly sliced green onions, fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of canola oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, dark brown sugar, freshly grated ginger, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend all the flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a large gallon-size Ziploc bag or a large bowl. Pour the prepared herb marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination. Before cooking, drain the chicken from the marinade.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken for Grilling: Brush the marinated chicken thighs with the remaining 1 tablespoon of canola oil. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste for enhanced flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Ensure even cooking by turning the chicken as needed.
- Serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and serve immediately while hot and juicy, pairing well with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight but no less than 2 hours.
- Make sure to oil the grill grates to avoid sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- Adjust the amount of fish sauce and lime juice to taste based on preferred saltiness and acidity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
