Chicken Thighs at 220°C (425°F) — Overview
Quick cook with very crispy skin. Good for boneless thighs or when time is limited.
BBQ Temperature
220°C (425°F)
Cook Time
25-30 minutes
Internal Temp
74-82°C (165-180°F)
Heat Method
direct
Chicken Thighs at 220°C (425°F)
How to BBQ chicken thighs at 220°C (425°F). Cook for 25-30 minutes, target 74-82°C (165-180°F). Step-by-step guide with tips.
By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels
Quick Answer
Chicken Thighs at 220°C (425°F): Cook for 25-30 minutes using direct heat. Target internal temperature: 74-82°C (165-180°F).
Cooking Times at 220°C (425°F)
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| BBQ Temperature | 220°C (425°F) |
| Cook Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Target Internal Temp | 74-82°C (165-180°F) |
| Heat Setup | direct |
Why Cook Chicken Thighs at 220°C?
Quick cook with very crispy skin. Good for boneless thighs or when time is limited.
Pro tip: Start skin-side down and don't move for 6-7 minutes — let the skin crisp without interference.
Step-by-Step: Chicken Thighs at 220°C
- Preheat: Get your BBQ to a stable 220°C (425°F). Use a grill thermometer at grate level for accuracy.
- Prep: Bring the chicken thighs to room temperature (15-20 minutes). Pat dry and season generously.
- Set up: Configure your BBQ for direct heat. Ensure even heat distribution across the cooking surface.
- Cook: Place the chicken thighs on the grate and cook for 25-30 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Check: Use a digital meat thermometer. Target: 74-82°C (165-180°F).
- Rest: Remove from heat and rest before cutting or serving.
Common Mistakes at 220°C
- Not preheating properly — a cold grill at 220°C means uneven cooking and longer times.
- Skipping the thermometer — time is a guide, internal temperature is the law.
- Opening the lid too often — every peek drops the temperature by 10-15°C and extends cooking time.
- Not resting — cutting immediately loses up to 30% of the juices. Rest for at least 5 minutes.
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Open CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How long to cook chicken thighs at 220°C?
Cook chicken thighs at 220°C (425°F) for 25-30 minutes. Use direct heat and check the internal temperature reaches 74-82°C (165-180°F).
Is 220°C a good temperature for chicken thighs?
Quick cook with very crispy skin. Good for boneless thighs or when time is limited.
What internal temperature should chicken thighs reach?
Target 74-82°C (165-180°F). Always use a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part for accuracy.
Should I use direct or indirect heat at 220°C?
At 220°C, use direct heat for chicken thighs. Direct heat gives you better sear marks and caramelisation.
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Sources & References
1
America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)
Rigorously tested cooking methods for perfectly cooked poultry.
Video
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