Green Goddess Grilled Chicken recipe
Nothing says summer quite like juicy grilled chicken infused with fresh herbs and citrusy brightness. This Green Goddess Grilled Chicken delivers all the flavor and freshness you crave, wrapped in a creamy, herb-packed dressing that feels effortlessly gourmet.
Every bite balances smoky char from the grill with the cool, tangy richness of Greek yogurt and lemon. The combination of basil, parsley, dill, and chives creates a vibrant green hue and an aroma that’s instantly irresistible.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings, this recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into a show-stopping main dish. It’s quick, fresh, and guaranteed to impress with its garden-fresh flavor and silky, crave-worthy sauce.
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken – Ingredients
Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, these cuts soak up the herb-packed dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and smoky grill marks.
Fresh Herbs: A vibrant mix of basil, parsley, dill, and chives forms the heart of the green goddess sauce, infusing the chicken with garden-fresh brightness.
Greek Yogurt: Adds a creamy tang that balances the herbs while tenderizing the chicken for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Mayonnaise: Lends richness and a silky finish, giving the dressing its luxurious, smooth consistency.
Lemon Juice: A touch of citrus lifts the flavors, bringing brightness that complements the charred, savory notes from the grill.
Garlic: Provides a subtle kick of depth, enhancing the overall complexity of the dressing and tying every flavor together.
Recipe Tips
1. Let the Grill Do the Work
When grilling chicken thighs, patience is key. Preheat your grill to medium-high and let it reach a consistent temperature before cooking. This ensures even heat distribution and helps achieve that perfect char without drying out the meat. Resist the urge to move the chicken too soon — allowing it to sear undisturbed builds a flavorful crust that locks in juices. Always check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part for perfectly cooked, juicy results.
2. Make the Green Goddess Dressing Ahead
This dressing develops deeper flavor as it rests. Blend it up to a day in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. The herbs infuse beautifully over time, resulting in a more vibrant and balanced sauce. Use half for marinating and save the rest for drizzling at the end — the contrast between the grilled chicken and the chilled, creamy dressing is simply irresistible.
3. Mastering the Marinade
For even more depth, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling. The Greek yogurt’s natural acidity tenderizes the meat while the herbs infuse each bite with freshness. Avoid marinating for more than 2 hours to prevent the yogurt from breaking down the texture of the chicken. Always discard used marinade and use a fresh portion of dressing for serving to maintain food safety and peak flavor.
What to Serve with Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
1. Herbed Couscous or Quinoa Salad
Light and refreshing, a fluffy couscous or quinoa salad loaded with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon perfectly complements the rich, herby chicken. The grains absorb extra dressing, tying the entire meal together with bright, Mediterranean flair.
2. Grilled Vegetables
Charred asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers echo the smoky essence of the chicken while adding color and crunch to your plate. A quick brush of olive oil and sprinkle of sea salt before grilling keeps them flavorful yet simple.
3. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
For something heartier, roasted potatoes with garlic and herbs pair beautifully. Their crispy edges and tender centers make the perfect base for catching extra green goddess sauce, creating a satisfying, complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well, but keep an eye on the cooking time — they cook faster and can dry out more easily. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for best results.
2. Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked. You’ll miss the smoky char, but the flavor remains deliciously fresh and tangy.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Enjoy it cold in wraps, salads, or reheated gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness.
4. Can I make the green goddess dressing dairy-free?
Yes! Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo. The dressing will still be creamy and flavorful, with all the herbaceous brightness that makes it irresistible.
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1
- In a food processor, combine the garlic, basil, parsley, dill, and chives. Pulse until the herbs are finely minced. Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Blend until a smooth and cohesive dressing forms.
- Step 2
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and season them evenly with the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Pour in 1/2 cup of the prepared green goddess dressing, reserving the rest for serving. Toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated.
- Step 3
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Clean and oil the grates thoroughly. Grill the chicken, turning once midway, until it develops a light char and is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), which will take approximately 11 to 14 minutes.
- Step 4
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter and spoon the reserved dressing over the top before serving.
- Step 5 (Make Ahead)
- The green goddess dressing can be prepared up to one day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken may also be tossed with 1/2 cup of the dressing and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before grilling.
