Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 cup fresh dill, stems removed and chopped; 1 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 lemon or lime, juiced; Pinch cayenne pepper (optional); Kosher salt, to taste; 10 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp allspice; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground green cardamom; Salt and pepper, to taste; 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided; 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced; 2 lemons, juiced

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Introduction

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these juicy grilled chicken thighs paired perfectly with a refreshing dill yogurt sauce. This dish is simple to prepare and ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.

The image shows a white rectangular tray filled with five grilled chicken pieces that have a golden-brown color with black grill marks and a slightly charred texture. Some pieces have a dollop of pale green herb sauce on top, and fresh green dill sprigs are scattered across the chicken. A small white bowl with more of the pale green herb sauce sits at the top center of the tray, with a spoon resting inside it. The tray is placed on a rustic wooden surface, and there are two glasses of rosé wine in the upper right corner of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup fresh dill, stems removed and chopped
1 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 lemon or lime, juiced
Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Kosher salt, if needed
10 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground green cardamom
Salt and pepper, to taste
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 lemons, juiced

Instructions

Step 1: Make the dill Greek yogurt sauce by combining the minced garlic, fresh dill, Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon or lime juice, and cayenne pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and thick. Taste and add kosher salt if needed. Transfer to a small bowl, cover, and refrigerate.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the 10 minced garlic cloves, paprika, allspice, nutmeg, ground green cardamom, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons olive oil to create the seasoning.
Step 3: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub each piece thoroughly with the garlic-spice seasoning mixture.
Step 4: In a large dish, combine the thinly sliced red onions, lemon juice from 2 lemons, and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions and toss gently to coat the chicken in the marinade.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate the chicken to marinate for 2 to 4 hours if time allows. This step is optional but enhances flavor.
Step 6: Preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs covered for 5 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 3 to 5 minutes covered, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve with the chilled dill yogurt sauce for a delicious contrast.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill instead of gas.
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but watch the grilling time closely to avoid drying out.
If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the dill and garlic and whisk the sauce ingredients together by hand.
Add fresh cucumber and mint to the yogurt sauce for a tzatziki-inspired variation.

Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out. The yogurt sauce is best served cold and should not be heated.

How to Serve

A white rectangular dish filled with several pieces of grilled chicken, each piece showing a caramelized brown color with darker char marks and a slightly rough texture from grilling. Some pieces are topped with thick, creamy, light green sauce that has visible herbs mixed inside. Fresh green herb sprigs are scattered around the chicken, adding a fresh touch and color contrast. At the back of the dish, a white bowl holds more of the same green sauce, slightly messy with some sauce dripping down the sides. The dish is set on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the marinade and sauce in advance?

Yes, both the marinade and dill yogurt sauce can be made a day ahead. This allows the flavors to deepen and saves time on the day you plan to cook.

What should I serve with Mediterranean grilled chicken thighs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, warm pita bread, or fluffy couscous for a complete Mediterranean meal.