Greg's Budget-Friendly Grilled Chicken Thighs
If you've spent any time in the grocery store lately, you've probably noticed that filling the cart isn't getting any cheaper.
While everyone loves brisket, ribs, and steaks, those cooks aren't always realistic for a weeknight dinner or when you're trying to stick to a budget. That's why I keep coming back to one of the most underrated cuts of meat at the meat counter: chicken thighs.
They're affordable, forgiving on the grill, and packed with flavor. Best of all, you can feed the whole family without feeling like you just financed dinner.
This recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I want something simple, delicious, and easy on the wallet.
Why Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are one of the best values in barbecue.
- Less expensive than chicken breasts
- Hard to overcook
- Full of flavor
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Perfect for grilling
When cooked properly, they stay juicy and tender while picking up plenty of smoky flavor from the grill.
Greg's Budget-Friendly Grilled Chicken Thigh Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Burn Pit BBQ Ground Pounder Garlic or Pop Smoke Memphis Style
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (350-400°F).
- Toss the chicken thighs with olive oil and seasoning until evenly coated.
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Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side.
- During the final few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175-185°F.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice or chop the chicken and pile it onto toasted buns.
- Top with coleslaw and serve.
Stretch Your Grocery Budget
One of the things I like most about this recipe is how versatile it is.
If you have leftovers, use them for:
- Tacos
- Wraps
- Loaded baked potatoes
- Salads
- Rice bowls
One cook can easily turn into two meals, which is always a win when you're trying to keep food costs under control.
Around The Pit
Barbecue doesn't have to be expensive to be enjoyable.
Some of my favorite meals aren't the overnight brisket cooks or competition-style ribs. They're simple dinners shared with family after a long day, standing around the grill and enjoying good food together.
If you're looking to save a few dollars this week without sacrificing flavor, give these grilled chicken thighs a try.
We'll see you around the pit.
- Greg