These juicy grilled chicken thighs are bursting with flavor! Paired with a creamy Green Goddess sauce made from fresh herbs, they are simply irresistible.
Throw these on the grill and watch everyone come running for seconds! I love serving them with a side of veggies for a colorful meal that’s quick and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful during grilling. If you prefer, boneless, skinless thighs can be used; just reduce the grilling time. Chicken breasts are a leaner option but may dry out more easily.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil if that’s what you have. They both work well for grilling.
Mayonnaise: This gives the Green Goddess sauce that creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. It gives a similar creaminess with added protein.
Herbs: Fresh basil, chives, and parsley are essential for that bright flavor. If you don’t have all three, feel free to use just one or two. You can also use dried herbs in a pinch, but fresh is much better here.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Grilling chicken thighs to perfection takes a bit of attention to detail. To start, ensuring your grill is preheated to medium-high is key. This helps create a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Pat the chicken dry to remove moisture; this helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, and don’t forget the olive oil!
- Grill skin-side down for that golden crunch. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more tender.
Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Fresh Green Goddess Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh chives and basil leaves for garnish
For the Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 anchovy fillets (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons water or milk to thin sauce, if needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to grill the chicken. After that, just let it rest for a few minutes. So, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes total for a fantastic meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a great char!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This helps the skin to crisp up nicely. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Finish with a splash of lemon juice for added flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating, and the skin should be beautifully charred and crisp.
4. Make the Green Goddess Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time to whip up the Green Goddess sauce! In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh basil, chives, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, and optionally, anchovy fillets. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season the Sauce:
Once blended, taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Give it a quick mix again to incorporate the seasoning.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done grilling, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. After resting, spoon a generous amount of the fresh Green Goddess sauce over each chicken thigh.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
To finish, garnish your beautifully grilled chicken with fresh chives and basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy it with your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad!
This recipe showcases juicy grilled chicken paired with a rich, herb-filled sauce that perfectly complements the smoky flavor. Easy, delightful, and simply delicious!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Fresh Green Goddess Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. Just remember to reduce the grilling time to about 5-7 minutes on each side since they cook faster without the bone and skin.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and Green Goddess sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will last for up to 3 days, while the sauce can stay fresh for about a week.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream works great as a substitute for mayonnaise in the Green Goddess sauce. It will still provide a creamy texture without the extra calories.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The Green Goddess sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken up a bit when refrigerated.
