Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, juicy, and herb-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend grilling, Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce is the answer. This recipe features tender, marinated grilled boneless chicken thighs paired with a creamy, tangy green goddess sauce that elevates every bite.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through:

• The best marinade for grilled chicken thighs

• How to make the perfect Green Goddess Sauce

• Step-by-step grilling instructions

• Expert tips for juicy, flavorful chicken

• Nutritional benefits and serving suggestions

Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

---

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

✅ Juicy & Flavorful – Boneless chicken thighs stay moist and tender, even on the grill.
✅ Creamy Herb Sauce – The Green Goddess Sauce is fresh, tangy, and packed with herbs.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for leftovers, salads, and rice bowls.
✅ Quick & Easy – Only 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking.

---

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce

For the Chicken Thighs

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (the best cut for grilling)

• Kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

• Vegetable or avocado oil (for greasing the grill)

For the Green Goddess Marinade & Sauce

• ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves (bright and earthy)

• ¼ cup fresh chives (mild onion flavor)

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (sweet and aromatic)

• ¼ cup fresh dill (tangy and slightly citrusy)

• ¼ cup distilled white vinegar (for acidity)

• 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice (or extra vinegar)

• ½ cup mayonnaise (creamy base)

• 1 garlic clove (for a punch of flavor)

• 1 ½ tsp honey (balances the acidity)

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (for richness)

• Salt & black pepper (to taste)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Green Goddess Sauce

1. In a tall jar (or blender), combine parsley, chives, basil, dill, vinegar, lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic, and honey.

2. Use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to blend until smooth and vibrant green.

3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until creamy.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If too thin, add more mayonnaise.

5. Separate the sauce—use about ⅓ cup for marinating and the rest for serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Thighs

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel (helps the marinade stick).

2. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.

3. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or baking dish and coat with ⅓-½ cup of the Green Goddess marinade.

4. Marinate for 1-2 hours (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken to Perfection

1. Preheat the grill (or grill pan) to 400°F.

2. Lightly oil the grates—dip a paper towel in oil and wipe the grill to prevent sticking.

3. Remove chicken from the fridge 10 minutes before grilling (helps even cooking).

4. Shake off excess marinade and place thighs on the grill.

5. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving (keeps juices locked in).

7. Drizzle with remaining Green Goddess Sauce and enjoy!

---

The Secret to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilling chicken thighs can be a game-changer for your weeknight dinners, but achieving that perfect balance of juicy, tender meat with a slightly charred exterior requires a few key techniques. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out quickly, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are more forgiving due to their higher fat content. Here’s how to grill them flawlessly every time.

Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

• Boneless & Skinless: Easier to eat and cooks faster.

• Uniform Thickness: Ensures even cooking—trim excess fat if needed.

• Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh thighs have better texture, but frozen works if thawed properly.

Prepping the Chicken for the Grill

1. Pat Dry: Excess moisture prevents browning—always pat thighs dry with a paper towel.

2. Season Well: A simple salt and pepper rub enhances natural flavors.

3. Marinate for Depth: The Green Goddess marinade (with herbs, mayo, and vinegar) tenderizes and infuses flavor.

Grilling Techniques for Juicy Results

• Preheat the Grill: 400°F is ideal—too low, and the chicken steams instead of sears.

• Oil the Grates: Prevents sticking—use a paper towel dipped in avocado or vegetable oil.

• Sear First: Grill 5-6 minutes undisturbed on the first side for a crispy crust.

• Use a Thermometer: Pull thighs off at 165°F (they’ll carryover cook while resting).

• Rest Before Serving: Letting them sit 5 minutes redistributes juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Grill: Leads to uneven cooking.

• Flipping Too Soon: Chicken will stick—wait for natural release.

• Skipping the Thermometer: Undercooked chicken is unsafe; overcooked is dry.

With these tips, your grilled boneless chicken thighs will be restaurant-quality every time!

---

 How to Make the Ultimate Green Goddess Sauce

Green Goddess Sauce is a creamy, herb-packed condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, salads, and sandwiches. Originating in the 1920s as a tribute to a play, this sauce has stood the test of time thanks to its bright, tangy flavor. Here’s how to make the best version at home.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Chives, Basil, Dill): Provide freshness and color.

• Mayonnaise: Base for creaminess.

• Vinegar & Lemon Juice: Add acidity to balance richness.

• Garlic & Honey: Depth of flavor and subtle sweetness.

• Olive Oil: Emulsifies for a silky texture.

Step-by-Step Blending Method

1. Combine Herbs & Wet Ingredients: Add parsley, chives, basil, dill, vinegar, lemon juice, mayo, garlic, and honey to a blender.

2. Blend Until Smooth: Pulse until herbs are fully broken down.

3. Drizzle in Olive Oil: Slowly emulsify for a creamy consistency.

4. Adjust Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, or more honey to taste.

Customization Ideas

• Spicy Version: Add jalapeño or red pepper flakes.

• Dairy-Free: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or avocado.

• Herb Substitutions: No dill? Use tarragon or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions Beyond Chicken

• Drizzle over roasted veggies

• Dip for crudités or pita chips

• Spread for sandwiches or wraps

This versatile sauce keeps up to 5 days refrigerated—make a double batch!

---

 Meal Prep & Leftover Ideas for Grilled Chicken Thighs

One of the best things about grilled chicken thighs with Green Goddess Sauce is how well they hold up for leftovers. Here’s how to repurpose them into quick, delicious meals all week.

Storage Tips

• Fridge (2-3 Days): Store in an airtight container with sauce on the side.

• Freeze (3 Months): Wrap thighs individually in foil before freezing.

• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet or oven to retain moisture.

5 Easy Leftover Transformations

1. Green Goddess Chicken Salad

   • Shred thighs, mix with extra sauce, celery, and almonds. Serve on bread or lettuce wraps.

2. Protein-Packed Grain Bowls

   • Layer thighs with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a dollop of sauce.

3. Herbed Chicken Tacos

   • Slice thighs, warm in a pan, and serve in tortillas with slaw and lime.

4. Quick Chicken Pasta

   • Toss chopped thighs with pasta, spinach, and a splash of sauce for a creamy dish.

5. Breakfast Hash

   • Sauté diced thighs with potatoes, onions, and eggs. Top with Green Goddess.

Why Chicken Thighs Are Meal-Prep Heroes

• Stay Juicy: Reheat better than breasts.

• Budget-Friendly: Often cheaper than other cuts.

• Flavor Absorbers: Taste even better after marinating.

Expert Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Thighs

🔥 Use a Meat Thermometer – Chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating.
🌿 Customize the Herbs – Don’t like dill? Swap it for extra parsley or basil.
🍗 Chicken Breast Option – If using breasts, pound to ½-¾” thickness and grill 1-2 minutes longer.
🔥 Avoid Flare-Ups – Too much oil on the grill can cause flames—wipe grates lightly.
🥗 Perfect for Meal Prep – Store leftovers for 2-3 days or freeze for later.

---

Serving Suggestions

This Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce pairs well with:

• Grilled vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers)

• Rice or quinoa bowls

• Fresh salads (drizzle extra sauce on top!)

• Warm pita or naan bread

---

Nutritional Benefits

✅ High in protein – Great for muscle recovery.
✅ Healthy fats – From olive oil and mayo.
✅ Low-carb option – Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

---

FAQs About Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work but should be ½-¾” thick and cooked to 165°F.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken?

1-2 hours is ideal, but up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the Green Goddess Sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days.

4. What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

A regular blender or food processor works just as well.

5. Can I freeze grilled chicken thighs?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

---

Print

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Thighs with Green Goddess Sauce recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves juicy, flavorful chicken with a creamy, herb-packed sauce. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ.