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Flavorful Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

herb-marinated grilled chicken thighs - featured image
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Juicy, smoky grilled chicken thighs marinated in fresh herbs and lemon, served with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for easy summer meals and backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of dried red pepper flakes (optional)
  • For the Tzatziki:
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and drained
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add to the marinade, turning to coat all sides. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 to 6 hours.
  3. Make the tzatziki by grating cucumber and squeezing out excess moisture. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir well and chill.
  4. Preheat grill to about 400°F (205°C). Clean and oil the grates.
  5. Grill chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-7 minutes per side until skin is crisp and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate, tent with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
  7. Serve chicken with a generous bowl of tzatziki on the side, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crisp skin. Marinate at least 1 hour but no more than 12 hours to avoid texture changes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. If flare-ups occur, move chicken to cooler grill area to finish cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken thighs, herb marinade, tzatziki sauce, summer meals, easy dinner, backyard barbecue, Greek-inspired, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/flavorful-herb-marinated-grilled-chicken-thighs-recipe-for-easy-summer-meals/