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Quick 15-Minute Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe with Perfect Asparagus Side

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A fast and flavorful recipe featuring juicy grilled boneless chicken thighs paired with crisp-tender asparagus, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb / 450g), trimmed and washed
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Trim and prep asparagus by snapping off woody ends (about 1–2 inches) and rinsing under cold water. Pat dry. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, half the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Set aside. (5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, remaining garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes at room temperature. (5 minutes)
  3. Heat grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot, about 3 minutes.
  4. Place chicken thighs smooth side down on the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until browned and grill marks appear. Flip and cook 3–4 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). (8–9 minutes total)
  5. While chicken cooks, push asparagus to one side of the pan or cook in a second pan. Grill asparagus for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
  6. Remove chicken and asparagus to a plate. Let chicken rest for 3 minutes to seal in juices. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

Notes

If your grill pan isn’t large enough to cook asparagus alongside chicken, roast asparagus in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 8 minutes while chicken cooks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear and prevent steaming. Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken thighs, asparagus side, quick dinner, 15-minute recipe, healthy chicken recipe, weeknight meal, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/quick-15-minute-grilled-chicken-thighs-recipe-with-perfect-asparagus-side/