Zesty Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

Introduction

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful meal to add to your grilling repertoire, these Zesty Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs are the perfect choice. Packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a kick of jalapeño, this dish is as simple to prepare as it is delicious. The combination of cilantro, parsley, and oregano creates a bold herb marinade that infuses the chicken with bright, zesty flavors, while grilling adds a smoky, charred finish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just need a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe will elevate your grilled chicken game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The fresh herb marinade not only flavors the chicken but also keeps it juicy and tender as it grills. With a zesty combination of cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, and jalapeño, the marinade has a vibrant, slightly spicy kick balanced by tangy lemon juice and vinegar. It’s a perfect recipe for outdoor grilling, but you can also cook these chicken thighs on a grill pan or in the oven if needed. Plus, the marinating process can be as short as 20 minutes or as long as 24 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 small shallot, peeled
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1/2 cup oil (olive oil or neutral oil)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs

Directions

1. Prepare the Herb Marinade

Start by making the flavorful herb marinade. In a food processor, combine the chopped cilantro, parsley, oregano, peeled shallot, garlic, and half of a seeded jalapeño pepper. Pulse until everything is roughly chopped.

Next, add the lemon juice, vinegar, oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue pulsing until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined. This bright and zesty herb marinade will add depth and bold flavor to the chicken.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the 2 lbs of boneless chicken thighs in a large baking dish or resealable plastic bag. Season the chicken with a bit of salt and pepper, then pour about 1/4 cup of the prepared herb marinade over the chicken. Turn the chicken thighs to ensure they are evenly coated. For the best flavor, cover the dish and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. If you have time, let the chicken marinate for up to 24 hours—the longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.

3. Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). While the grill heats up, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Once the grill is hot, place the chicken thighs directly on the grates. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have a nice char on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The fresh herbs from the marinade will caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding extra flavor and texture.

4. Serve

Once the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the grilled chicken with extra herb marinade on the side for dipping or drizzling over the chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice for a complete meal.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Food processor for blending the marinade
• Baking dish or resealable plastic bag for marinating the chicken
• Grill or grill pan for cooking
• Tongs for flipping the chicken on the grill

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While a 20-minute marinade will still give the chicken great flavor, marinating it for a few hours or overnight will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. The acidity from the lemon juice and vinegar helps tenderize the chicken, while the herbs add bold, fresh flavors.
• Grilling Temperature: Make sure your grill is hot enough to give the chicken thighs a good sear on the outside while keeping them juicy inside. Aim for medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
• Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Different Herbs: If you don’t have fresh oregano on hand, feel free to substitute it with thyme or basil for a different flavor profile. You can also use dried herbs if necessary, though fresh herbs provide the best flavor.
• Spice Level: If you love spicy food, leave the seeds in the jalapeño for an extra kick of heat. For a milder version, use less jalapeño or omit it entirely.
• Chicken Cuts: This recipe works just as well with bone-in chicken thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly—bone-in cuts will take a bit longer to cook through.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover grilled chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Leftover chicken also makes a great addition to salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Food and Drink Pairings

These Zesty Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh quinoa or couscous salad, grilled vegetables, or even a creamy potato salad for a classic barbecue spread. As for drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer complements the zesty, herbaceous flavors of the chicken. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea would be ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of on the grill?
A: Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop.

Q: Can I make this marinade ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the herb marinade up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken thighs with the marinade. Place the chicken in a resealable freezer bag with the marinade, squeeze out any excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

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