Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Unlock the secrets to juicy and flavorful chicken thighs with this detailed recipe, optimized for the Arteflame grill. Using the reverse searing method, you'll lock in the juices with a perfect sear on the center grill grate and finish cooking on the flat cooktop to achieve your desired doneness. Follow this guide to enjoy the most succulent and delicious chicken thighs.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on (Alternative: Costco Boneless and Skinless Organic Chicken Thighs)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:

   • Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Brush them with melted butter and olive oil, then season with coarse sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2. Fire Up the Grill:

   • Preheat your Arteflame grill to high heat (over 1,000°F) to get it ready for grilling.

3. Sear the Chicken Thighs:

   • Place the chicken thighs skin side down on the center grill grate over the high heat. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Turn the thighs over and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.

4. Finish Cooking on the Flat Top:

   • Move the seared chicken thighs to the flat top griddle surrounding the grill grate. Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.  Cut a chicken thigh open and make sure the center is still pink, then take it off the grill.  It will continue to cook even after you take it off so don't overcook it!

5. Rest and Serve:

   • Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Tips

• Butter vs. Olive Oil: Butter adds richness and flavor to the chicken thighs, while olive oil helps achieve a crispy skin.
• High Heat for Searing: Achieve a perfect sear by utilizing the high heat of the Arteflame Grill.
• Even Cooking: Move the chicken thighs around the different heat zones on the cooktop to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Grilling chicken thighs on the Arteflame is an unparalleled experience that combines high-heat searing with slow cooking for maximum flavor and tenderness. This recipe ensures that your chicken thighs are perfectly seared, juicy, and full of flavor.  Make sure the chicken thighs are still pink in the middle when you take them off the grill.  This ensures they will be nice and juicy.  The key is the high heat of the center grill grate of the Arteflame to sear the meat.  Once seared, just make sure you don't overcook it!!!

Variations

1. Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs:

   • Add a mixture of finely chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the seasoning for an herbaceous crust.

2. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:

   • Baste the chicken thighs with garlic-infused butter during the final stages of grilling for a rich, savory flavor.

3. Spicy Chicken Thighs:

   • Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes and smoked paprika into the seasoning for a spicy kick.

4. Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs:

   • Marinate the chicken thighs in a blend of lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil for a citrusy, tangy twist.

5. Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs:

   • Brush the chicken thighs with a honey mustard glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and tangy finish.

Best Pairings

• Drink: A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
• Appetizer: A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette.
• Dessert: A light lemon sorbet or a slice of fruit tart.