These mayo marinated grilled chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! The creamy mayo helps keep the chicken tender while giving it a tasty kick from the spices.
You’ll love how easy this recipe is! Just mix mayo and your favorite seasonings, coat the chicken, and grill it up. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or a quick weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could swap them for chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster when grilling.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo works well, but I prefer avocado or olive oil-based mayo for a healthier twist. If you need a dairy-free version, you can use vegan mayo.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove you replace.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish wonderfully. Lime juice is also an excellent substitute if you want a slightly different flavor.
Spices: The paprika adds a nice color and smokiness. If you don’t have it, smoked paprika or chipotle powder can add a different kick. Similarly, dried oregano can be replaced with dried basil or Italian seasoning.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right on the Grill?
Grilling chicken thighs perfectly can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll ace it! First, make sure your grill is preheated nicely, which helps in getting that char. Don’t rush the cooking; it takes about 5-7 minutes per side.
- After marinating, let the excess marinade drip off. This helps prevent flare-ups on the grill.
- Cook until the thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is very handy here!
- Take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges for an extra pop of freshness! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Mayo Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (avocado or olive oil-based for Whole30)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate (preferably overnight for more flavor). Cooking on the grill will take around 15 minutes. So in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes, mostly waiting for the chicken to soak up those tasty flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together really well until it’s nice and smooth. This is your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with your marinade. Use a spatula or your hands to make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the delicious mix. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. If you can, let it sit overnight for even more amazing flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). After this, take the marinated chicken thighs out of the fridge and let the excess marinade drip off. Remember to throw away any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and a nice char on the outside.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! If you like, you can garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of zesty flavor. Enjoy your delicious mayo marinated grilled chicken thighs!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise! It will give you a tangy flavor and a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that it may not create the exact same texture, but the chicken will still be delicious and juicy!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken thighs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This longer marination time allows for deeper flavor penetration. If you’re short on time, even 1 hour will make a difference!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can cook the marinated chicken thighs in a grill pan on the stovetop, or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. To keep them moist, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.
