Name: Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for grilling

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Juicy, tender, and infused with rich garlic herb butter, these Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs are one of my favorite go-to meals—especially when I want something quick yet flavor-packed. They’re a delicious balance of crisp skin, succulent meat, and fresh herbs that make every bite unforgettable. Whether I’m firing up the grill for a summer get-together or just making a cozy dinner at home, this recipe never fails to impress.

Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Olive oil, for grilling

Directions

I start by combining the melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. I mix it well to form a rich, aromatic butter.

I pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub the butter mixture generously all over each piece, making sure to get some under the skin for maximum flavor.

I preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

I place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).

After removing the chicken from the grill, I let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to lock in those juices.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I sometimes use boneless, skinless thighs for a lighter version or swap in chicken breasts. I also like experimenting with different herbs—basil and oregano work great, too. For a spicy twist, I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the butter mix. And when I’m feeling indulgent, I brush a little extra garlic butter on the chicken right before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I usually pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through. If I’m in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too, but I prefer the oven to keep the skin a little crispy.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I always use a meat thermometer to check. When the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C), it's safe to eat and still juicy.

Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?

Yes! I often use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes.

What sides go well with garlic herb grilled chicken?

I usually pair it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. It also goes great with rice or quinoa.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely. I just use about one-third the amount if I’m swapping fresh herbs for dried ones, since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. I let the grilled chicken cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

These Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs are everything I love in a meal—quick, flavorful, and simple. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and rich herb-garlic flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe always delivers.

📖 Recipe:

Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs infused with garlic herb butter, offering a perfect balance of crisp skin, succulent meat, and fresh herbs. This easy, flavor-packed recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or summer grilling.

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the garlic herb butter.
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub the butter mixture generously over each thigh, including under the skin.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates with olive oil.
Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.