These juicy grilled chicken thighs are full of flavor and perfect for any cookout! They’re tender on the inside and have a nice char on the outside.
The real star is the creamy green goddess sauce, packed with fresh herbs. I could drench everything in it! It’s easy to whip up and makes dinner feel special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, boneless thighs can work, but just avoid overcooking them as they can dry out quickly.
Olive Oil: It adds moisture and helps the spices stick to the chicken. You can swap it with avocado oil if you like! It has a higher smoke point and is equally nutritious.
Herbs: The fresh parsley, chives, and tarragon in the sauce make it bright and delicious. If tarragon is hard to find, try basil for a different twist or use a mix of whatever herbs you have on hand!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These ingredients create that creamy texture. Greek yogurt is a great low-fat alternative. Depending on your taste, you could even use a dairy-free yogurt.
How Do I Grill Chicken Thighs to Perfection?
Grilling chicken thighs gives them a lovely smoky flavor, but it’s important to monitor the cooking time. To get them just right, follow these steps:
- Start by ensuring the grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps to seal in the juices.
- Grill skin-side down first for 6-8 minutes. This will create a beautiful, crispy skin.
- Flip and cook the other side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check — this is the best way to avoid dryness.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This step keeps the juices inside.
Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Creamy Green Goddess Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh chives
- 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves (or substitute with basil if unavailable)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets (optional, for umami depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (to thin, if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. You’ll spend about 20 minutes on the grill, so the total time is around 1 hour or a bit more if you marinate longer. The results are definitely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have time to spare!
2. Make the Green Goddess Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, add the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), parsley, chives, tarragon, lemon juice, minced garlic, and anchovy fillets (if you’re using them). Blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. If it feels too thick, you can add water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency. Pop the sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Make sure to clean and oil the grates to keep your chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nice and crispy with some charred spots. The grilling time may vary slightly depending on your grill, so watch closely!
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once done grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle so that each bite is delightfully juicy!
6. Serve:
Plate the grilled chicken thighs and either drizzle the creamy green goddess sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. This dish pairs well with fresh salads or grilled vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Creamy Green Goddess Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work! Just be cautious while grilling since they cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.
Can I Make the Green Goddess Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the green goddess sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This will also allow the flavors to meld together even more!
What Can I Substitute for Tarragon?
If you can’t find tarragon, basil is a great substitute! You can also use dill or cilantro, depending on your taste preference. Just keep in mind that these herbs will slightly change the flavor profile of your sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy green goddess sauce can also be stored separately. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven or microwave to maintain its juiciness. Enjoy your leftovers!
