Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs (with Coconut Aminos)

If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy grilled chicken recipe that works for busy weeknights, summer cookouts, and meal prep, this Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken is one you’ll want to keep on repeat. Made with a simple garlic herb chicken marinade featuring extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, and a blend of dried herbs, this recipe creates juicy, tender chicken with incredible flavor.

While many grilled chicken recipes rely on bottled marinades, this homemade herb grilled chicken marinade comes together in just minutes using simple pantry ingredients. The combination of cloves garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper creates a savory garlic herb flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken thighs.

One of my favorite ways to serve this grilled chicken is alongside grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or grilled chicken with coconut rice for a complete meal. The coconut aminos add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that makes this recipe a delicious option for anyone following a paleo grilled chicken thighs or whole 30 grilled chicken lifestyle.

Whether you’re cooking on a gas grill for a backyard barbecue or meal prepping for the week, this garlic chicken recipe is a perfect main dish that’s both versatile and family friendly. The herb marinade works beautifully with chicken thighs, but you can also use boneless skinless chicken breast, boneless chicken breast, or chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken

• Easy garlic herb marinade made with simple ingredients
• Naturally dairy-free and soy-free
• Great for paleo and Whole30 lifestyles
• Works with both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs
• Delicious with grilled chicken with coconut rice
• Perfect for meal prep and summer grilling
• Packed with savory garlic herb flavor

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade

• 7-8 organic pasture raised chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

• 8 chicken thighs (bone-in skin-on or boneless)

How to Make Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced fresh garlic, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, oregano, tsp salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, large bowl, or zip-top bag. Pour the garlic herb chicken marinade over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400–425°F. Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side for boneless chicken thighs or 8–10 minutes per side for bone-in thighs.

Avoid moving the chicken too often during the cooking process so beautiful grill marks can develop.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.

Remove from the grill and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken

• Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours for maximum flavor.
• Bring the chicken closer to room temperature before grilling.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to verify the internal temperature.
• Don’t flip the chicken too early or you’ll lose those beautiful grill marks.
• If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.

Variations

Use Chicken Breasts

This herb chicken marinade also works wonderfully with boneless skinless chicken breast or boneless chicken breast. Because chicken breasts are leaner than chicken thighs, be careful not to overcook them.

Add Citrus

For a brighter flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the marinade before mixing.

Try Fresh Herbs

Swap the dried herbs for fresh herbs if available. Fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano all work beautifully in this garlic herb recipe.

Add More Garlic Flavor

If you’re a garlic lover, add a pinch of garlic powder along with the fresh garlic for even more savory flavor.

What to Serve with Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken

This grilled chicken pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken with coconut rice
• Grilled vegetables
• Fresh garden salad
• Cauliflower rice
• Roasted Garlic Green Beans

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with chicken breasts?

Yes. This marinade works well with chicken breasts, boneless skinless chicken breast, and boneless chicken breast. Just adjust the grilling time as needed. I personally prefer the recipe however with chicken thighs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken up to 12 hours in advance.

Is this Paleo & Whole30 friendly?

Yes, as long as your coconut aminos are compliant, this recipe is suitable for a Whole30 grilled chicken meal or a Paleo dinner.

What sides go well with this grilled chicken recipe?

I love to eat this garlic herb grilled chicken along side sweet coconut rice and roasted garlic green beans.

Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chicken is delicious sliced over salads, served with vegetables, or added to meal prep bowls.

More Reader Favorite Recipes

• Oven Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe
• Coconut Rice
• Garlic Green Beens

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