When the warm summer sun beckons, there’s nothing better than firing up the grill for a family feast. That’s when I discovered the vibrant Green Goddess Grilled Chicken—a dish that quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The first time I made it, I was captivated by the intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs mingling with juicy chicken thighs, kissed by the grill’s flame. In just 30 minutes, this easy weeknight dinner transformed our dull dinner routine into an alfresco dining adventure, packed with flavor and charm.
What makes this chicken a standout is the creamy, herbaceous dressing that brings everything together. Perfectly balanced with the bright zing of lemon and a medley of fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and dill, it offers a refreshing twist that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a refreshing side salad, and you have a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious—ideal for those who crave home-cooked goodness and want to step away from fast food. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to elevate your grilling game!
Why is Green Goddess Grilled Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: A delightful combination of herbs and zesty lemon ensures a taste explosion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or cookouts, it has something for everyone.
Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it with various sides like salads or grilled veggies to mix things up!
Quick Cooking Time: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more with loved ones.
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Ingredients
For the Dressing
- Garlic Clove – Enhances flavor and aroma; substitute with garlic powder for convenience.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic kick; can swap for fresh mint for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Parsley – Provides a fresh, bright taste; other herbs like cilantro can be used.
- Fresh Dill Fronds – Contribute a unique tang; replace with tarragon if unavailable.
- Chives – Offer a mild onion flavor in the dressing; green onions serve as an alternative.
- Greek Yogurt (preferably 2% fat) – Adds creaminess and tanginess; sour cream can substitute.
- Mayonnaise – Contributes richness to the dressing; use a vegan alternative if desired.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors with acidity; lime juice is a suitable substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; sea salt can be used in equal amounts.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (6 to 8 pieces) – Main protein that stays tender during grilling; chicken breasts can be used but adjust cooking time.
- Neutral Oil (for grill) – Prevents sticking; olive oil can be used for added flavor.
How to Make Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
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Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the garlic, basil, parsley, dill, chives, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
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Marinate Chicken: Coat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with half of the dressing. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, or marinate for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor infusion.
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Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking, then place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is beautifully charred.
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Serve & Garnish: Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top just before serving for that fresh, herbaceous touch.
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Enjoy: Pair your grilled chicken with side salads or colorful grilled vegetables for a delightful and complete meal.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs for garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste preferences.
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Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives, like cashew cream or silken tofu, for a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Herb Swap: Change up the herbs! Experiment with thyme or oregano for a different aromatic profile depending on your pantry or seasonal offerings.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an exciting heat that warms the palate without overpowering.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate lime juice in place of lemon juice for a bright and tangy flavor that adds some tropical flair to the dish.
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Grilled Vegetables: Marinate zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus in the dressing and grill alongside the chicken for a harmonious side dish that echoes those fresh herb flavors.
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Seafood Variation: Substitute chicken thighs with shrimp or salmon fillets to savor a different protein that takes on the green goddess dressing beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped, toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds to the grilling veggies for added texture and flavor.
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Crispy Element: Top the finished dish with crispy shallots or fried garlic for an extra crunch that elevates the overall experience of every bite.
What to Serve with Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
Complete your meal with delightful sides that elevate every bite of your grilled chicken experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the herbaceous chicken, soaking up the vibrant flavors.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a smoky element that beautifully complements the freshness of the dish.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: With its crunchy romaine and zesty dressing, this classic salad offsets the creamy notes of the chicken while enhancing your dinner’s freshness.
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Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed option that brings nutty flavors and a delightful chewiness, making it a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty bread, with its buttery garlic flavor, is perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing on your plate—a comfortable, nostalgic addition.
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Refreshing Lemonade: This bright, sweet beverage captures the essence of summer, making it the ideal drink to balance the savory elements of your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
Fridge: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container; it will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Drizzle extra dressing on top to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze grilled chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and flavor.
Dressing Storage: Extra dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy it with salads or sandwiches.
Expert Tips for Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
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Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture. They tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts during grilling.
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Perfect Cooking Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure safety and prevent overcooking.
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Rest the Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juiciness, making your Green Goddess Grilled Chicken tender and delightful.
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Customize the Dressing: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Mix in anchovies or capers for a briny touch, tailoring the creamy dressing to your taste preferences.
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Prepare Ahead: Make the dressing a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. This saves time and enhances the flavors even more!
Make Ahead Options
These Green Goddess Grilled Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavor. Additionally, marinate the chicken thighs with half of the dressing and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before grilling. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill the chicken as directed, and drizzle with the remaining dressing before serving for a meal that’s just as delicious as fresh from scratch!
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh herbs for the Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting herbs, look for vibrant green leaves without any dark spots or wilting, as these indicate freshness. Fresh basil, parsley, dill, and chives should feel slightly firm and have a strong aroma. If you’re using dried herbs, remember they are more concentrated in flavor, so use about a third of the amount indicated for fresh herbs.
How should I store leftovers of Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend drizzling a little extra dressing over the chicken to help maintain its moisture and flavor. If kept sealed, it will stay delicious and ready to enjoy within a couple of days!
Can I freeze Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the grilled chicken cool completely. Place it in a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to preserve its tenderness.
What if my dressing is too thick for the Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
Very! If your dressing turns out too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon of water, one at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Make sure to taste as you go to ensure the balance of flavors remains rich and tangy.
Is Green Goddess Grilled Chicken safe for those with food allergies?
It’s essential to check for specific allergies. This recipe contains mayonnaise and yogurt, which could be problematic for those with dairy or egg sensitivities. For a dairy-free version, swap these ingredients with vegan alternatives that work well, like cashew cream or avocado. Always read labels and consider allergies when preparing your meal!
Savory Green Goddess Grilled Chicken for Flavorful Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the garlic, basil, parsley, dill, chives, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken thighs with half of the dressing. Let them sit for 10 minutes, or marinate for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates, place chicken on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature is 165°F.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove chicken from grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and drizzle remaining dressing over the top before serving.
- Enjoy: Pair your grilled chicken with side salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
