Name: Grilled Chicken Thighs with Creamy Green Herb Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional); ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 garlic clove; Juice of ½ lemon; ½ cup fresh parsley; ¼ cup fresh dill or basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon honey (optional); 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Grilled chicken thighs with creamy green herb sauce is a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with a tangy, herby sauce that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy chicken thighs grilled to perfection with crispy skin.
A zesty, creamy herb sauce that elevates the flavor.
Simple ingredients with a restaurant-quality finish.
Can be made with bone-in or boneless chicken.
Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy indoor grilling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon chili flakes for heat

For the green herb sauce
½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (for added creaminess)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove
Juice of ½ lemon
½ cup fresh parsley
¼ cup fresh dill or basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 teaspoon honey, for a touch of sweetness

For the garnish
2 green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
In a food processor or blender, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, dill or basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning, then refrigerate until serving.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Place chicken thighs skin-side down and grill for 6–7 minutes. Flip and grill for another 6–7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Drizzle generously with the creamy herb sauce and garnish with chopped green onion and parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even grilled fish.
Add cilantro and mint to the sauce for a brighter flavor.
Make it spicy by blending jalapeño or serrano pepper into the herb sauce.
Use dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Try roasting the chicken in the oven at 425°F for 25–30 minutes if you don’t have a grill.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The herb sauce keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat chicken in a skillet or oven until warmed through; avoid microwaving to keep the skin crisp.
Freeze grilled chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, they cook slightly faster—about 5 minutes per side.

Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?

Not required, but overnight marinating gives deeper flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan or roast the chicken in the oven.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and juices should run clear.

Can I substitute the herbs in the sauce?

Yes, parsley, dill, basil, cilantro, or mint all work well.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild unless you add chili flakes or blend chili into the sauce.

What side dishes go well with this?

Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but monitor cooking time as breasts can dry out faster.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it’s high in protein, uses healthy fats, and is lighter when paired with Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken thighs with creamy green herb sauce is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s easy to make yet impressive to serve. With its juicy chicken and herb-packed sauce, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.

Maggie

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Creamy Green Herb Sauce