Juicy, smoky grilled chicken thighs marinated in a bold blend of spices, topped with tangy pickled red onions and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer grilling, weeknight dinners, or flavorful meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled spiced chicken thigh recipe is packed with layers of flavor from a well-balanced spice blend and a bright contrast from quick-pickled red onions. The marinade ensures the meat stays juicy and tender, while grilling adds a smoky char. The dish is easy to prepare, great for large or small gatherings, and can be paired with a variety of sides to suit different occasions. It’s also ideal for meal prepping thanks to its bold flavor and versatility.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• olive oil
• lemon juice
• garlic cloves, minced
• ground cumin
• smoked paprika
• ground coriander
• turmeric
• chili flakes (optional)
• salt and pepper
• red onion, thinly sliced
• red wine vinegar
• sugar
• fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
4. While the chicken marinates, combine thinly sliced red onion with red wine vinegar and sugar in a small bowl. Let sit at room temperature to pickle.
5. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
6. Grill the chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and fully cooked through.
7. Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Top with drained pickled red onions.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 52 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version: Add extra chili flakes or a teaspoon of harissa paste to the marinade.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon for a more tropical flavor.
• Herb Swap: Try fresh mint or dill instead of parsley or cilantro.
• Baked Alternative: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes if grilling is not an option.
• Yogurt Marinade: Add a few tablespoons of yogurt to the marinade for added tenderness and creaminess.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Pickled onions can be stored separately in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week. Avoid freezing the pickled onions, but the grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, just increase the grilling time by 5–8 minutes, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the pickled onions ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat. To make it spicier, increase the chili flakes or add hot sauce to the marinade.

Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop?

Yes, a grill pan or cast iron skillet works well for stovetop cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, couscous, flatbread, grilled vegetables, or a green salad.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time since breasts can dry out faster. Grill 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Can I add vegetables to the grill?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant are great options and can be cooked alongside the chicken.

What vinegar works best for pickling the onions?

Red wine vinegar gives the best balance of acidity and color, but white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar also work well.

Can I double the marinade for more flavor?

Yes, especially if you want to use some for basting while grilling. Just reserve some marinade before adding raw chicken.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is effective, but overnight marinating yields the best flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled spiced chicken thighs with pickled red onion are a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers bold taste with minimal effort. The spice-laden marinade, paired with the tangy crunch of pickled onions and the freshness of herbs, makes this recipe a standout. Ideal for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings, this dish proves that a few good ingredients can go a long way in creating something truly memorable.

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