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Maple Thyme Grilled Chicken Thighs

overhead view of maple thyme grilled chicken thighs on a white plate with rosemary and thyme sprigs.

Once you try these juicy, sweet and savory grilled chicken thighs in a simple maple, thyme and rosemary marinade, you'll never cook chicken another way! They're easy and delicious - perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts. (gluten-free option)

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or neutral flavored oil, such as avocado oil
  • 2 tbsps pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsps fresh thyme
  • 2 tbsps chopped fresh rosemary
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from chicken thighs (optional).
  2. Whisk soy sauce, oil, maple syrup, pepper, thyme, rosemary and garlic together.
  3. Pour marinade over chicken thighs in a large container or a large zip-top bag. Turn chicken over to coat each piece well. 
  4. Marinate chicken for 30 minutes or more in the refrigerator. 
  5. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Place chicken on the grill over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until char lines appear and chicken releases from the grill.
  6. Move chicken to indirect heat (either a top rack or unheated side of the grill) to finish cooking, until internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, about 5-10 more minutes. 
  7. Remove chicken from the grill and serve.

Notes

  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Be sure to heat grill to high heat and brush grill grates clean before setting the temperature to medium high and cooking on it.
  • For even more flavor, pour marinade on the outside of the chicken thighs during the grilling process, before moving chicken to indirect heat. Discard any unused marinade - it is unsafe to eat without cooking first.
  • I highly recommend using a meat thermometer for cooking chicken and any other protein to ensure proper temperature without overcooking. Chicken should always reach 165°F in the thickest part. 

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