Pellet Grilled Chicken Thighs
This recipe delivers unbelievably juicy chicken thighs with minimal effort, utilizing the consistent heat and smoky flavor of a pellet grill. Perfect for both bone-in and boneless cuts, it's a foolproof favorite for any backyard BBQ or comforting meal.
Equipment
- Pellet Grill
- Meat Thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp BBQ rub your favorite blend
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 cup BBQ sauce for basting
- 1 tbsp honey for added sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet grill to 225°F (107°C) for low and slow cooking or 350°F (177°C) for a quicker cook with crispier skin.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Brush them with olive oil and season generously with your chosen BBQ rub.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill grates, skin-side up if applicable. Close the lid and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 45 minutes at 225°F or 25-30 minutes at 350°F.
- If using BBQ sauce, brush it onto the chicken thighs during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow it to set and caramelize.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in your favorite marinade for a few hours before grilling. Using fruit wood pellets like apple or cherry can add a subtle sweetness to the smoke flavor.