These tasty grilled chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! Topped with a creamy, fresh green goddess sauce, they are perfect for a quick dinner or a summer cookout.
What’s not to love? The sauce has herbs that bring a zing, and the chicken is so easy to make. I like to serve it with a simple salad or some grilled veggies—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the chicken moist and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless, skinless thighs work, though they’ll need a bit less time on the grill.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You can swap it with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different flavor.
Herbs for the Sauce: Fresh basil, chives, and parsley make the green goddess sauce vibrant. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work, but use less. You can also switch in cilantro or dill for a twist!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both give the sauce a creamy texture. Greek yogurt adds a tangy bite and is lower in fat. Feel free to use buttermilk for a lighter sauce if you prefer.
Anchovy Fillets: These add depth to the sauce. If you want to skip them, try using a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor, or just leave them out.
How Do I Get Juicy, Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Grilling chicken thighs can be easy but requires attention for the best results. Here are some tips:
- Marinade: Let the chicken marinate for a longer time (1-2 hours) for more flavor. Overnight is even better!
- Grilling Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high. This gives your thighs a nice sear, which locks in juices.
- Cooking Time: Grill skin-side down first for crispy skin. Aim for about 6-7 minutes per side. Always use a meat thermometer—165°F is your target.
- Resting: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps them juicy when you cut into them.
Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Fresh Green Goddess Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Fresh Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 anchovy fillets (optional, for umami)
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water or olive oil, as needed to thin the sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 20-25 minutes for grilling. Allow at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, though longer is better for flavor. In total, including marinating time, you can cook this delicious meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Marinade for the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Marinating the Chicken Thighs:
Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated. Place the chicken in a dish or a ziplock bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavors, marinate for 1-2 hours if you have time.
3. Preheating the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grilling the Chicken:
Put the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for crispy, charred skin and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
5. Making the Green Goddess Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the sauce by combining the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), basil, chives, parsley, tarragon (if using), lemon juice, vinegar, anchovies (if using), and garlic in a blender. Blend until smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serving the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, arrange the grilled thighs on a platter and generously spoon the Green Goddess sauce over the top. Garnish with extra chopped chives and fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the chicken immediately with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe serves about 4-6 and is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and easy preparation. Happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Fresh Green Goddess Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs! Just remember that they will cook faster, so check for doneness after about 5 minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo, or use half mayo and half yogurt. For a dairy-free version, try avocado or a store-bought vegan mayo!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. The Green Goddess sauce can also be made ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and Green Goddess sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will be good for 3-4 days, and the sauce can last up to a week. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove.
