There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into something exceptional, and this Green Goddess Grilled Chicken is just that! Picture it: the vibrant colors of fresh herbs dancing together—basil, parsley, dill, and chives—create a sensational green goddess dressing that takes grilled chicken to a whole new level.
After a long week of fast food takeout, the allure of a homemade meal becomes irresistible. I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for ways to elevate my weeknight dinners. It’s packed with flavor yet incredibly simple to whip up. The chicken thighs sear beautifully on the grill, and the dressing adds a luscious touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility; it’s perfect for a relaxed summer evening or a crowds-pleasing barbecue. So, fire up your grill, and let’s get ready to impress with this fresh, colorful, and utterly delightful Green Goddess Grilled Chicken!
Why is Green Goddess Grilled Chicken a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: This dish bursts with a fresh, aromatic herb profile that elevates your chicken game.
Quick preparation: With less than 15 minutes on the grill, you can serve up a gourmet meal in no time.
Versatile and fun: Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or even meal prep!
Crowd-pleaser: Dine with friends? This colorful dish garners compliments and keeps the plates coming back for more!
Healthy twist: Greek yogurt and fresh herbs lend a nutritious yet delicious touch, making this recipe a win-win.
Come discover your new favorite dinner recipe!
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Ingredients
For the Dressing
- Garlic clove – Adds a zesty kick to the creamy mixture.
- Fresh basil – Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that defines the dressing.
- Fresh parsley – Brightens the overall taste and enhances freshness.
- Fresh dill fronds – Imparts a slightly tangy flavor that complements the herbs.
- Chives – Offers a mild onion note and a lovely crunch.
- Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess while keeping the dressing light and tangy; a delicious base for the sauce.
- Mayonnaise – Contributes richness and smooth texture to the dressing.
- Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dressing and balances the flavors with a citrusy zing.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, don’t skip this step!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, perfect for grilling and soaking up all the luscious dressing.
- Neutral oil – Essential for grilling, helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
Get ready to create an unforgettable dish with these ingredients for your Green Goddess Grilled Chicken!
How to Make Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
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Prepare the Dressing: In a food processor, pulse together the sliced garlic, fresh basil, parsley, dill, and chives until finely chopped. Then, add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, processing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Add 1/2 cup of the freshly made green goddess dressing to the chicken, reserving the rest for serving. Gently toss until the chicken is fully coated in the flavor-packed dressing.
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Heat the Grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat by preheating it for about 5 minutes. Make sure to clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill, turning them halfway through cooking. Grill until slightly charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take about 11 to 14 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and top it with the reserved green goddess dressing. This adds an extra layer of flavor that your taste buds will love.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Perfect Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for the dressing; they elevate the flavor and aroma of your dish significantly.
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Don’t Overcook: Always check the internal temperature to avoid drying out the chicken; it should reach 165°F for juicy perfection.
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Marinate Time Counts: For a punchier flavor, let the chicken marinate with the dressing for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
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Grill Prep Is Key: Clean and oil your grill before cooking to ensure that the chicken doesn’t stick and gets those beautiful grill marks.
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Keep Leftovers in Mind: If you have extra dressing, it’s fantastic as a dip for fresh veggies or a spread for wraps, ensuring nothing goes to waste!
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with a plant-based yogurt alternative for a creamy yet dairy-free dressing.
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Herb Explosion: Add fresh cilantro or mint to the dressing for a refreshing twist that brings new life to the classic flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to the green goddess dressing for an uplifting heat that complements the herbs beautifully!
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist that brightens up the dish with a different citrus profile.
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Grilled Veggies: Toss some seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers on the grill alongside the chicken. They soak up the flavors and make for a colorful side!
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Nuts for Crunch: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the dressing for an unexpected crunch that adds texture and flavor depth.
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Sweeten the Deal: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup into the dressing to contrast the savory herbs, creating a delightful balance.
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Balsamic Glaze: Finish your chicken with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and acidity that makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
Embrace the opportunity to personalize your Green Goddess Grilled Chicken and watch as it transforms into your unique go-to dish!
How to Store and Freeze Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
Fridge: Store cooked green goddess grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy while preserving the vibrant flavors of the dressing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the grilled chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F again for safe consumption.
Extra Dressing: Any leftover green goddess dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, perfect for salads or as a dip for fresh veggies!
What to Serve with Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
There’s nothing quite like a colorful and flavorful spread to complement a delicious grilled dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the zesty chicken, creating a comforting bite. They soak up extra dressing, making every mouthful exquisite.
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Grilled Asparagus: These tender stalks add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that balances the rich dressing, making your plate vibrant and fresh.
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Citrus Quinoa Salad: With bursts of lemon and orange, this salad introduces a refreshing zing, enhancing the herbaceous notes of the chicken. It’s perfect for a light and nutritious side.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous sprinkled with fresh herbs compliments the chicken’s flavors, while its light texture keeps the meal feeling airy and bright.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings sweetness and slight caramelization to the table, creating a satisfying contrast to the grilled chicken.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc brings out the fresh herbs and adds a cooling touch that’s delightful on warm evenings.
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Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh, seasonal fruit can cleanse the palate and finish off your meal on a sweet and refreshing note.
These side dishes will elevate your Green Goddess Grilled Chicken meal to a feast that tempts the senses and warms the heart!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead has never been easier with this delicious Green Goddess Grilled Chicken! You can prepare the green goddess dressing up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and vibrant. Additionally, marinate the chicken thighs with half of the dressing and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling—this will deepen the flavors delightfully! When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill and follow the grilling instructions as is; this ensures the chicken remains juicy and full of that fresh herb goodness. Enjoy a flavorful homemade meal without the last-minute rush!
Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the freshest herbs for the dressing?
Absolutely! When picking herbs like basil, parsley, and dill, look for bright, vibrant colors and avoid any that have dark spots or wilting leaves. Fresh herbs should have a strong aroma, signaling their freshness. I recommend buying them from a local farmers market if possible for the best flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover Green Goddess Grilled Chicken?
To keep your delicious green goddess grilled chicken tasty, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps lock in the moisture and flavors, so you can enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first meal!
Can I freeze Green Goddess Grilled Chicken? How?
Very! To freeze, first let the grilled chicken cool completely. Then, arrange the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Why did my chicken turn out dry?
Hmm, don’t worry! If your chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking. Always check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should register 165°F when done. For extra juiciness, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients in green goddess grilled chicken are naturally gluten-free, including the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Just make sure to check the labels on those products to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten.
Is it safe to feed leftover Green Goddess Grilled Chicken to my dog?
While the grilled chicken itself is safe for dogs, be cautious with the dressing. Ingredients like garlic can be harmful to pets. If you want to share with your furry friend, simply give them some plain chicken without the dressing for a special treat!
Enjoy cooking and creating delicious memories with this recipe!
Savory Green Goddess Grilled Chicken for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, pulse together the sliced garlic, fresh basil, parsley, dill, and chives until finely chopped.
- Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, processing until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Add 1/2 cup of the dressing, reserving the rest.
- Gently toss until the chicken is fully coated with the dressing.
- Preheat your grill for medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, and clean and lightly oil the grates.
- Place the chicken on the hot grill, turning it halfway through, until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer chicken to a platter and top with reserved dressing.