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Mayo Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs: A Delicious Whole30, Paleo, Keto, and Gluten-Free Delight

When it comes to quick and easy meals that pack a punch of flavour, few dishes can rival grilled chicken thighs. In the realm of healthy eating, particularly for those following Whole30, Paleo, Keto, or gluten-free diets, marinating chicken can elevate the dish from simple to extraordinary. One such method that has taken the culinary world by storm is the mayo marinade. Let’s explore how to create succulent Mayo Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping your dietary restrictions in check.

The Benefits of Mayo in Marinades

Mayo is often dismissed as a mere condiment, but when used as a marinade, it works wonders for meat. The emulsion of fat and egg in mayonnaise not only infuses moisture but also enhances flavour and tenderness. For those following Whole30, Paleo, and Keto diets, it’s important to select a high-quality mayonnaise free from additives and sugars. Look for options made with avocado oil or olive oil for a wholesome alternative that adheres to your dietary guidelines.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make your Mayo Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs, you will need:

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup of high-quality mayonnaise (ensure it’s Whole30, Paleo, and Keto-compliant)
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (check for sugar-free options)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley) to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless, depending on preference)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended. The acid from the vinegar and lemon juice not only enhances the flavour but also helps tenderise the chicken.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best for maximum flavour.

Step 3: Grilling the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off (you don’t want it to be too gloopy on the grill). Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 7-10 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). If you desire a crispy skin, you can finish the thighs over direct heat for the last few minutes.

Step 4: Serving

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender meat. Serve the grilled chicken thighs with a side of sautéed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even cauliflower rice for a complete meal that adheres to your nutritional needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatility: These grilled chicken thighs can be paired with various sides and sauces to suit your palate.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate several pounds of chicken at once, then grill and store for easy meal planning throughout the week.
• Health-Conscious: With no added sugars or processed ingredients, this dish aligns perfectly with Whole30, Paleo, Keto, and gluten-free lifestyles.
• Flavourful: The mayo marinade ensures that each bite is packed with flavour, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything.

Conclusion

Mayo Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs are a superb addition to any healthy eating repertoire. Bursting with flavour and easy to prepare, this dish not only fits within strict dietary guidelines but also pleases the palate of everyone at the table. Whether you’re on a Whole30, Paleo, Keto, or gluten-free journey, this recipe is sure to become a regular feature in your culinary rotation. So fire up that grill and enjoy a scrumptious meal that you can feel good about!