Name: Green Goddess Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup fresh parsley; 1/2 cup fresh basil; 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)

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Green Goddess Grilled Chicken is a vibrant, herb-packed dish that’s fresh, zesty, and full of flavor. I marinate the chicken in a creamy Green Goddess dressing made with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and yogurt or mayo, then grill it to juicy, golden perfection. It’s a healthy, feel-good meal that tastes as bright as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this chicken bursts with fresh, herby flavor thanks to the Green Goddess marinade. It’s easy to prep ahead, grills beautifully, and works with everything from salads and grain bowls to wraps or veggie sides. The marinade also helps keep the chicken super tender and juicy, making this a go-to for weeknights or outdoor grilling.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Green Goddess marinade:

Fresh parsley
Fresh basil
Fresh chives or green onions
Garlic cloves
Lemon juice
Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Optional: anchovy paste or Dijon mustard (for depth)

For the chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil (for grilling)

Directions

I start by blending all the marinade ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy.
I pour the marinade over the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag, making sure it’s fully coated.
I let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor).
I preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat and brush it with oil to prevent sticking.
I grill the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep, 1 hour to marinate (or overnight), and 15 minutes to cook, so I usually set aside about 1.5 hours including marinating time.

Variations

Sometimes I add avocado to the marinade for extra creaminess, or swap the herbs based on what I have (like cilantro or dill). For a spicier version, I blend in a jalapeño. I’ve also used the same marinade with shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables—it’s super versatile.

storage/reheating

Leftover chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave, or slice it cold and serve it over a salad or wrap. The leftover marinade (before touching raw chicken) also works as a dressing or dip.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, I bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Is the Green Goddess marinade spicy?

Not at all—it’s herbaceous and tangy. I add chili flakes or jalapeño if I want a little heat.

Can I use dried herbs?

Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but in a pinch, I use dried (at half the amount) and blend well.

What should I serve with it?

I usually pair it with rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies. It’s also great sliced on top of a salad or in a pita wrap.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, I freeze it in the marinade and thaw it overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Conclusion

Green Goddess Grilled Chicken is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a fresh, herb-forward meal that’s simple but impressive. Whether I’m grilling for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe gives me juicy, flavorful chicken every time—perfect for all kinds of dishes and occasions.