Figuring out the best way to grill chicken thighs does not have to be an exercise in futility. Try these handy tips for doing chicken thighs on the grill.
Some people seem to think that the breast is the only part of a chicken that can be cooked effectively with a grill. Fortunately, this is not the case.
How to Grill Chicken Thighs: Preparing the Meat
In the preparation stage, make sure to remove as much of the excess fat as possible. Fat will melt and drip onto the coals causing flare ups. Flare ups will scorch the exterior of your meat and make it looked burned.
You also want to wash the meat thoroughly, especially if you plan to season the pieces before placing them on the grill. Seasoning your chicken before grilling is a great way to maximize the flavor. Keep in mind that more important than the type of seasoning you use is how you apply it. As much as possible, you should try to get the seasoning directly onto the meat because the skin acts like a barrier and prevents the flavor from infiltrating the meat.
How to Grill Chicken Thighs: Cooking the Meat
Use a wire brush to clean the grate before placing your meat on the grill. Then, apply a small amount of vegetable oil to the grate to prevent the meat from sticking.
If you ask any pro about grilling chicken thighs he will tell you to cook them slowly under medium to low heat. Position the meat toward the extremity of the grill grate. Keep a close watch for flare ups. If the flames flare up from melted fat dripping into the fire you can either remove the chicken from the grill till the fire dies down, or you can grab the meat with tongs and shake the liquid fat off into the fire or onto the ground.
Check the meat periodically and turn over when the bottom becomes firm and brown. Rearrange the pieces on the grill as necessary if one area is cooking faster than another.
How to Grill Chicken Thighs: Finishing the Meat
Shortly before the chicken thighs are finished, close the vents on your grill and douse the meat with several layers of barbecue sauce. Let the chicken sit on the grill for just a couple of minutes afterward to give the sauce time to seep into the meat. If you want, you can turn the chicken and repeat this step prior to removing it from the grill. These grilled chicken thighs will be yummy!
Dispel any doubt that grilling chicken thighs is easy by following these couple of helpful suggestions.
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