Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwich Recipe

This juicy, charred Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwich is made with boneless thighs, smoky spices, and brioche buns and ready in 25 minutes. Biting through the toasted bread into the tender, smoky meat makes every bite satisfying. I always prefer thighs over breasts because they stay incredibly moist on the grill.

Why This Classic Works

I used to make sandwiches with chicken breasts, but they always dried out before getting a good char. Switching to chicken thighs solved that problem completely. The dark meat absorbs marinades beautifully and cooks up much faster.

The higher fat content means the meat stays tender even if you leave it on the grill a minute too long. I love how the spice rub caramelizes on the edges for a slightly crispy finish.

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Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwich Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 4 brioche buns
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 leaves butter lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

How To Make Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwich

1. Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the grill: Heat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the chicken: Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Toast the buns: Place the brioche buns cut-side down on the grill for 1 minute until lightly toasted.
5. Assemble the sandwich: Spread mayonnaise on the toasted buns, then layer with lettuce, tomato, and the grilled chicken thighs.

Recipe Tips

• Pound the chicken: Flattening the thicker parts of the thigh ensures even cooking across the grill.
• Oil the grates: Brushing your grill with oil prevents the chicken from sticking and tearing when you flip it.
• Rest the meat: Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before assembling so the juices do not make the bun soggy.

What To Serve With Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwich

Serve this sandwich with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh cabbage slaw. A cold potato salad also balances the smoky flavor of the meat perfectly.

How To Store

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the buns and toppings separate to avoid a soggy sandwich. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but you will need to reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent drying them out. Pounding them to an even thickness is highly recommended.

Do I need an outdoor grill?

Not at all. A cast-iron grill pan on the stove works wonderfully and still provides those great char marks.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, leaving the chicken in the spice rub overnight in the fridge deepens the flavor significantly.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g
• Protein: 32g

Try More Recipes:

• Grilled Chicken Avocado Sandwich
• Grilled Chicken Ciabatta Sandwich Recipe
• Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich Recipe