These Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for any meal. The secret? They’re topped with a creamy Green Goddess Sauce that adds a zingy taste!
Honestly, grilling chicken thighs is a breeze! I love pairing them with fresh veggies or a simple salad. It’s an easy way to impress friends without breaking a sweat! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless skin-on chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts work too, though they may need extra care to avoid drying out.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted butter can work well too. They both have high smoke points for grilling.
Mayonnaise: For the sauce, mayonnaise gives a creamy texture. If you prefer a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt, which adds protein and tang.
Anchovy Paste: This ingredient enhances the sauce’s depth. If you don’t want to use it, Worcestershire sauce can be a good substitute for the umami flavor.
Why is Marinating Important for Chicken?
Marinating the chicken thighs is key for adding flavor and keeping them juicy. Allow at least 15-30 minutes, but if you can manage a few hours or even overnight, the taste will be even better!
- Mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it rest. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper.
How Do You Make the Perfect Green Goddess Sauce?
Making the Green Goddess Sauce is simple and only takes a few minutes. Using a blender ensures a nice, smooth consistency.
- Combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), herbs, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste in the blender.
- Blend until smooth, adjusting thickness with water as needed. Taste and add salt or pepper if required.
- Refrigerate the sauce to let the flavors meld together. It’s so refreshing!
This recipe is not just about great flavors, but it’s also about easy techniques that make your cooking experience enjoyable and successful!
Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken marinade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, plus extra chopped chives for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste or 2 anchovy fillets (optional)
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-30 minutes of preparation, plus around 15 minutes for grilling. The whole process is straightforward, making it an easy and delicious meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil. Then, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you choose to use it) over the chicken. Rub the spices and olive oil into the chicken to coat it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes to marinate and absorb all those flavors.
2. Make the Green Goddess Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to whip up the Green Goddess Sauce! In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), parsley, chives, basil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste (if you’re using it). Blend everything until smooth. If your sauce is too thick, you can add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste it and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Once done, pop it in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to serve.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Next, heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). To prevent the chicken from sticking, make sure to oil the grill grates lightly.
4. Grill the Chicken Thighs:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down, and grill them for about 6-7 minutes. After that, flip the thighs and cook for another 6-7 minutes or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps seal in the juices for a moist bite!
6. Plate the Dish:
When ready to serve, drizzle the grilled chicken thighs generously with the chilled Green Goddess Sauce. Feel free to garnish with extra chopped chives and fresh basil leaves for a lovely pop of color and flavor.
What to Serve With:
This delicious dish goes perfectly with grilled vegetables, a light salad, or roasted potatoes to balance out the flavors. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add even more flavor, but they may take a little longer to cook. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and adjust your grilling time accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Leftover grilled chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The Green Goddess Sauce can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it again!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Green Goddess Sauce?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a lighter option or have an allergy, use Greek yogurt instead. It will maintain the creaminess while adding a lovely tangy flavor.
How Do I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free as well. You can find many options available in stores today!
