Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

Everyone needs a go-to chicken recipe. What better way to enjoy this protein-packed PowerFuel than grilling it to perfection? Our simple Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs are an amazing main course for your summer menu. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit, a seasonal salad or grilled veggies for a balanced meal that fits into your healthy diet.

You know that marinating tenderizes and infuses flavor into your meat. But did you know that it also has health benefits? According to Natural Medicine Journal, grilling meat can create compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). HCAs are considered carcinogens and are said to increase the risk of cancer. However, marinating your meat in herb-infused mixtures, especially those that contain rosemary, can decrease the formation of HCAs on your grill by up to 70 percent.

Our delicious marinade contains a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper and a dash of salt. However, feel free to add other herbs and spices that you enjoy! Rosemary would be a delicious and nutritious addition. Simply toss all of the marinade ingredient into a zip top bag and add your chicken thighs. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for about two hours. Once it’s ready, preheat your grill and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about five minutes per side, until fully cooked.

Want to make this healthy chicken recipe in the winter or fall? Nix the grill and try out a different cooking method! Pan sear your chicken for a similar flavor and crispy texture. You can also throw your marinated chicken thighs into a baking dish and roast them in the oven. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and ensure the meat is cooked to the proper temperature. According to Foodsafety.gov, chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

One serving of these Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs contains 219 calories. You can count it as two PowerFuels and one Extra.

Serve up your Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs with a SmartCarb or Vegetable side dish! Explore our Recipe section for a variety of options that are perfect for your backyard barbecue or summer picnic. We put together a list of some of our favorites below:

• Grilled Asparagus Caesar Salad >
• Greek Orzo Summer Salad >
• Tomato Peach Salad >
• Grilled Romaine Salad with Honey Mustard Tahini Dressing >
• Creamy Cauliflower “Potato Salad” >
• Grilled Cabbage Steaks >
• Southwestern Sweet Potato Salad >
• Grilled Power Salad >
• Healthy Air Fryer Peaches >
• Turnip Fries >

What’s your favorite food to cook on the grill? Have you created your own healthy grilled recipe that you want to share? Submit your ideas on the Nutrisystem Recipe Submission page! Your tasty creations could be featured right here on The Leaf Weight Loss Blog. We’re loving this grilled Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe submitted by Carla!

Looking for a healthy meal delivery service to help you lose weight? Enjoy chicken dinners without the cooking! Nutrisystem delivers perfectly portioned meals directly to your door. Get started with a Nutrisystem meal plan today!