Grilled Spicy Chili Garlic Chicken Thighs are a bold and flavorful dish that brings together smoky grilled chicken with a spicy, garlicky marinade. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are infused with a mix of chili paste, garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice for an irresistible combination of heat and umami. Perfect for summer grilling, meal prep, or a spicy twist on your favorite chicken dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory.
Juicy and Tender – Chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful on the grill.
Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and fast cooking time.
Versatile – Serve with rice, in tacos, or alongside grilled veggies.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy all week long.

Ingredients

Grilled Spicy Chili Garlic Chicken Thighs

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

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Chili paste (such as Sambal Oelek or gochujang)
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Olive oil
Lime juice
Honey or brown sugar
Smoked paprika
Cumin
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together chili paste, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the Chicken – Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours.
Preheat the Grill – Heat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken – Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve – Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes (including marination)

Variations

Extra Spicy – Add sriracha or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Sweet and Spicy – Increase the honey for a sticky glaze.
Griddle Cooking – Use a Blackstone griddle instead of a grill for a charred crust.
Lemon Twist – Swap lime juice for lemon for a different citrus flavor.
Oven-Baked – Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes if you don’t have a grill.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.
Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and may dry out.

What’s the best chili paste to use?

Sambal Oelek, gochujang, or Thai red chili paste work well for this recipe.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors, but avoid more than 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too salty.

How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates lightly before grilling and avoid flipping the chicken too soon.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Rice, grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh mango salsa complement the spicy chicken.

Can I make this less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and chili paste for a milder flavor.

Should I grill with the lid open or closed?

For thicker cuts, grill with the lid closed to retain heat. For thinner cuts, keep it open for better control.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Use a cast-iron skillet or broil in the oven for a similar charred effect.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken ahead and store in the fridge until ready to grill.

Conclusion

Grilled Spicy Chili Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy way to add bold flavors to your meal. Whether for a backyard barbecue, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it with different sides and spice levels to make it your own!