These juicy grilled chicken thighs are packed with flavor and so easy to make! The tender meat pairs perfectly with a rich, creamy Green Goddess sauce that adds a fresh and herby touch.
Honestly, who can resist grilled chicken? I love making extra sauce so I can drizzle it on everything—perfect for dipping veggies too! It’s a tasty way to brighten up your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are great for grilling as they remain juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can switch to skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor to the chicken. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use avocado oil, which also has a high smoke point.
Spices: The garlic and onion powders, along with smoked paprika, add depth. If you want a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both create a creamy sauce. I often use Greek yogurt for its tanginess and health benefits. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free yogurt.
Tarragon: This herb gives the sauce a distinct flavor. If you can’t find it, fresh basil or dill can be substituted. They offer a different yet delightful taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Tender?
Marinating the chicken is crucial. It not only boosts flavor but helps to keep it moist while grilling. The acid from lemon juice tenderizes the chicken, so the longer you marinate (within a safe range), the better!
- Add chicken to the marinade and cover it well for at least 30 minutes. For even better results, aim for 2 hours!
- When grilling, keep an eye on the temperature. You want a crisp skin but juicy inside—165°F (75°C) is your target.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This step allows the juices to redistribute for ultimate tenderness.
Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Creamy Green Goddess Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves (or substitute with basil)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 anchovy fillets (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Water or buttermilk, as needed to thin sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for grilling. Plus, aim for at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken—longer if you have time! So, in total, you should plan for about an hour or so to prepare a delicious feast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Making the Creamy Green Goddess Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), parsley, chives, tarragon, lemon juice, anchovies (if using), garlic, and Dijon mustard. Blend everything together until it’s smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some water or buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste! Chill the sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
3. Preheating the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to get those perfect grill marks and a nice char on your chicken!
4. Grilling the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grates. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side. You want to achieve crispy skin and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be juicy and golden brown!
5. Resting and Serving:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute. Serve each chicken thigh with a generous spoonful of the creamy Green Goddess sauce on top.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful grilled chicken thighs paired with the fresh, herby creaminess of the Green Goddess sauce! Perfect for any summer meal or barbecue gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily. To keep them juicy, try not to overcook them and consider marinating for a shorter time, around 30-60 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last for up to 3 days, while the sauce should be consumed within a week. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or oven, and give the sauce a good stir before using it again.
Can I Make the Green Goddess Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The Green Goddess sauce actually tastes even better after a few hours for the flavors to meld together. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What If I Don’t Have All the Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you’re missing some herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use less since they’re more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, basil or dill can work well in place of tarragon. Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand!
