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Kentucky Grilled Chicken (Healthy)

This recipe offers a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version while still delivering deliciously flavorful and tender chicken that's perfect for a family dinner or backyard barbecue.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade:

  • 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce such as Tabasco
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Seasoned Flour Coating:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Grilling:

  • Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing the grill

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the Chicken:
    In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
    Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
  • Prepare the Seasoned Flour Coating:
    In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the spices.
  • Grill the Chicken:
    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
    Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
    Lightly grease the grill grates with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
    Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
    Place the coated chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin side down. Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be crispy and golden brown.
    During grilling, you can baste the chicken with a little olive oil or melted butter for extra flavor and moisture.
  • Serve:
    Once the Kentucky grilled chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a serving platter.
    Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
    Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.
  • Enjoy your homemade Kentucky grilled chicken!
Keyword Kentucky Grilled Chicken