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Flavorful Brown Sugar Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs

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Juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs with a caramelized brown sugar and garlic marinade that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended. (5 minutes)
  2. Pat 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick and promote crisp skin. (2 minutes)
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours for deeper flavor. (30 minutes to 4 hours)
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. (10-15 minutes)
  5. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes until the skin has a deep golden-brown color and slight char marks. Flip and grill the other side for another 6-7 minutes. (12-15 minutes total)
  6. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C). If not, move chicken to indirect heat and cover the grill for a few more minutes. (5 minutes if needed)
  7. Transfer the chicken to a plate or tray and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Notes

Dry the chicken skin before marinating for crispiness. Watch for flare-ups due to sugar caramelization and move chicken away from direct flames if needed. Rest chicken for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy. Marinate at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours. Can be cooked on grill pan or baked at 425°F for 25-30 minutes if grill is unavailable.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken thighs, brown sugar chicken, garlic chicken, summer BBQ, easy grilled chicken, juicy chicken thighs, caramelized chicken

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/flavorful-brown-sugar-garlic-grilled-chicken-thighs-easy-recipe-for-juicy-tender-meat/