Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you’re craving juicy, ultra-flavorful Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs, you’re about to discover your new go-to summer recipe. These chicken thighs are marinated with bold spices, grilled to smoky perfection, and served with a creamy dill Greek yogurt sauce for that irresistible herby kick. Trust me, this is a meal that will make your taste buds do a happy dance!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what goes into these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs. The ingredients are simple, but each one plays a starring role—bringing vivid color, fresh aromas, and crave-worthy flavor to your table. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you shouldn’t skip a single one!

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: More forgiving than breast, these come off the grill juicy and full of flavor.
• Greek yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy—essential for that refreshing dill sauce.
• Fresh dill: Adds vibrant, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green color to the sauce.
• Garlic (lots of it!): Brings bold, savory depth to both the marinade and the dip.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Moistens, carries flavor, and adds classic Mediterranean richness.
• Lemon juice: Its zesty brightness lifts the marinade and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Red onion: Lends sweetness and a pop of color, becoming tender as it marinates with the chicken.
• Paprika, allspice, nutmeg, green cardamom: This spice medley creates that signature warm, fragrant undertone.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every nuance in your dish.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a hint of heat in their sauce.

Variations

The beauty of Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs is how easy they are to customize. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary preferences or simply cleaning out the fridge, it’s fun to put your own spin on this crowd-pleaser.

• Swap the protein: Try boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even turkey cutlets—just watch the cook time for juiciness!
• Herb upgrade: Mix in fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro along with (or in place of) dill for a different herbal vibe.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes if you want your chicken with a little more kick.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut yogurt for the Greek yogurt and use your preferred dairy-free cream in the sauce.

How to Make Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Dill Greek Yogurt Sauce

In a food processor, blend together garlic, heaps of fresh dill, creamy Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon or lime juice, and a touch of cayenne for a gentle kick. The end result should be ultra-smooth and flecked with bright green. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed, then stash it in the fridge to let the flavors mingle while you get your grill on.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic-Spice Marinade

In a small bowl, toss together the minced garlic, paprika, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, a good glug of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This intensely aromatic blend is the heart of your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs, so don’t be shy with those spices—they’re what bring the magic.

Step 3: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry (this helps the marinade stick!), then rub them all over with the garlic-spice mixture. In a large dish, scatter sliced red onions, pour in plenty of lemon juice and the remaining olive oil, and nestle the seasoned chicken on top. Give it all a gentle toss so your thighs are fully immersed in those tangy, aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

If time allows, cover and refrigerate your chicken for 2–4 hours (even overnight, if you’re planning ahead). This marinating step is the secret to maximum tenderness and depth of flavor, letting all those bold spices and citrus notes seep right in.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Heat your grill to medium-high. Shake off any extra marinade and lay the chicken thighs directly on the hot grates. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, then flip and grill for another 3–5 minutes, until the outside is beautifully charred and the inside is juicy. You’re aiming for an internal temp of 165ºF—use a quick-read thermometer for peace of mind!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This is when the juices redistribute, so every bite stays luscious! Serve warm with a generous spoonful of that dreamy dill Greek yogurt sauce.

How to Serve Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

For a burst of fresh flavor and color, scatter your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs with chopped dill, parsley, or mint. A sprinkle of sumac gives citrusy sparkle, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving brings that restaurant-worthy sheen!

Side Dishes

These chicken thighs love to be the star of a Mediterranean feast! Serve them alongside fluffy rice pilaf, toasted pita, a crisp Greek salad with tomatoes and feta, or even roasted veggies like zucchini and red pepper for a colorful, well-rounded plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your platter into a centerpiece by serving the chicken on a bed of greens with grilled lemons for squeezing. For a fun twist, stuff the sliced thighs into warm pita bread with sauce, crunchy veggies, and a sprinkle of feta—picnic-perfect and portable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs can be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep the dill Greek yogurt sauce separate so everything stays ultra-fresh.

Freezing

The chicken thighs freeze beautifully—let them cool fully, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy again (just don’t freeze the yogurt sauce, as it can separate).

Reheating

Reheat chicken thighs gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F, just until warmed through. A splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil can help restore their juicy texture—top with fresh sauce right before serving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs, let this be the summer you fall in love! It’s the perfect mashup of smoky, zesty, and creamy, with so many ways to make it your own. I hope you’ll give this recipe a whirl—your backyard (or kitchen!) will thank you, and so will everyone who scores a seat at your table.

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