If you’re dreaming of golden, succulent chicken loaded with fresh herbs and zesty spices, look no further than these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs. Each bite delivers a sunny burst of flavor, thanks to a vibrant marinade and a creamy dill Greek yogurt sauce that you’ll want to slather over everything. This is my go-to recipe when I want something easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to transport everyone at the table straight to the Mediterranean coast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Marinade: The garlic, lemon, and bold spices create deep, complex flavors that turn ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.
- Juicy, Never Dry: Chicken thighs are naturally tender, and the marinade keeps them moist—even after grilling over high heat.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dill Yogurt Sauce: The creamy Greek yogurt dip, brightened by fresh dill and citrus, is refreshing and pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken.
- Weeknight-Friendly: With a quick 10-minute prep and under 15 minutes of grill time, these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs deliver maximum flavor with minimum fuss!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs lies in how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients come together to make something truly delicious. Each one plays a crucial role, from juicy chicken thighs to a punchy blend of fresh herbs and warming spices that make the dish burst with character.
- Greek Yogurt: Thick and creamy, it forms the base for the zesty dill sauce and adds lots of protein.
- Fresh Dill: Brings a bright, herbal note to the yogurt sauce—don’t skimp here if you want that authentic Mediterranean freshness!
- Garlic: Used generously for both the marinade and the sauce, it infuses the whole dish with savory depth.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness to the marinade and yogurt sauce, and helps keep the chicken juicy as it grills.
- Lemon Juice: A double burst—used in both the sauce and the marinade to add tang and tenderize the chicken.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: The star of the show! Thighs hold up beautifully to grilling and absorb flavor expertly.
- Red Onion: Sweet and sharp, it soaks up the marinade and caramelizes slightly on the grill.
- Paprika, Allspice, Nutmeg, Cardamom: These warming Mediterranean spices build a backbone of earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Salt, Pepper, Cayenne (optional): For perfect seasoning and a little extra kick if you like it spicy.
Variations
Part of what makes these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs such a staple in my kitchen is how much you can play around with the recipe. Feel free to adapt based on what’s in season, your own tastes, or dietary needs—the possibilities are endless!
- Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs: Swap in boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option—just watch your grill time to keep them juicy!
- Dairy-Free Sauce: Substitute your favorite dairy-free yogurt for Greek yogurt to make the dill sauce vegan-friendly.
- Add Veggies to the Grill: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a colorful, all-in-one Mediterranean feast right on the grill.
- Spice Swap: Play with the spice blend by adding sumac or switching paprika for smoked paprika to make it your own.
How to Make Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Make the Dill Greek Yogurt Sauce
Start by blending the Greek yogurt, fresh dill, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne (if you want a little heat) in a food processor. Whiz it all together until you have a smooth, thick, beautifully green-flecked sauce. Taste and season with salt if needed. Pop the sauce in the fridge—letting it chill while you prep the chicken deepens its flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning and Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, stir together the minced garlic, paprika, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Pat the chicken thighs dry (this helps them brown nicely), then rub each thigh with the aromatic garlic-spice mixture. Don’t be shy—a generous coating is key for that mouthwatering Mediterranean flavor!
Step 3: Marinate with Onions & Lemon
Scatter the sliced red onions at the bottom of a large dish. Drizzle in the lemon juice and remaining olive oil, then lay the seasoned chicken thighs on top. Toss gently to coat everything. For best results, cover and marinate for 2–4 hours in the fridge. Short on time? Even 30 minutes will work wonders, but if you can wait, those extra hours make the flavor pop!
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your gas grill to medium-high. Shake off excess marinade and arrange the chicken thighs over the hot grates. Cover and grill for 5 minutes, then flip, cover again, and cook for another 3–5 minutes. You’re looking for deep grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest point. Rest the chicken for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving, so the juices stay put and every bite is moist.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange your grilled chicken thighs on a generous platter with the chill dill Greek yogurt sauce on the side. Scatter the grilled onions over the top for an irresistible finishing touch—and get ready for the rave reviews!
Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Give your chicken as much marinating time as possible—two to four hours truly transforms the flavor and tenderness of the thighs.
- Yogurt Sauce Ahead: The dill Greek yogurt sauce is even tastier when made in advance; an overnight rest helps the flavors mingle for a more complex, tangy dip.
- Preheat and Clean Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot and the grates are brushed clean to prevent sticking and create those perfect grill marks.
- Temperature Is Key: Always check the internal temperature and let the chicken rest after grilling for succulent, juicy results every time.
How to Serve Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness. For bonus vibrancy, scatter a few lemon wedges and extra sliced red onions on the platter. Sometimes, I even add a pinch of flaky sea salt to make every bite sparkle with flavor.
Side Dishes
You can’t go wrong by serving your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs with fluffy herbed rice, warm pita or flatbread, and a crisp cucumber-tomato salad. Roasted vegetables, Greek potato wedges, or a classic tabbouleh also make terrific sidekicks—the fresh, tangy flavors are the perfect match for the herby grilled chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your grilled chicken thighs into a festive platter by layering the chicken over a bed of salad greens, piling on grilled veggies, and dolloping plenty of dill yogurt sauce over the top. Or, stuff everything into warm pita pockets with greens and sauce for a handheld Mediterranean feast. It’s also amazing as part of a mezze spread—let everyone make their own perfect bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Store the dill yogurt sauce separately in a small jar or bowl so it stays fresh and doesn’t make the chicken soggy.
Freezing
The grilled chicken freezes beautifully! Wrap cooled thighs tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. (For best results, prepare the dill yogurt sauce fresh—it doesn’t freeze well.)
Reheating
For moist, tender chicken, reheat the thighs gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible—it can sometimes toughen the chicken.
FAQs
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Can I use dried dill instead of fresh for the yogurt sauce?
Fresh dill really makes the sauce sing, but in a pinch you can substitute with dried dill. Use about 1 tablespoon dried dill for every 1 cup of Greek yogurt. The flavor will be subtler, so if you can, add a squeeze of extra lemon to brighten it up.
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Can Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs be cooked indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill or the weather isn’t cooperating, use a grill pan or regular skillet on your stovetop. Cook the thighs over medium-high heat, and follow the same timing—just be sure to work in batches for the best browning.
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How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a digital thermometer: the Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into a thigh—the juices should run clear and the meat should not look pink.
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Can I prepare Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Marinate the chicken and make the dill yogurt sauce up to one day in advance. Grill and serve just before your guests arrive, or grill ahead and serve cold or at room temperature—they’re delicious either way!
Final Thoughts
If you give these Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs a try, I promise you’ll taste the sunshine in every bite. It’s easy, colorful, and packed with fresh flavor—a recipe you’ll turn to again and again for family meals and relaxed gatherings. Fire up the grill, pile on the herbs, and enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean at home!
Print
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs are bursting with flavor from a blend of aromatic spices and a tangy dill Greek yogurt sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Dill Greek Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup fresh dill, stems removed, 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
Grilled Chicken:
- 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
- 5 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 2 lemons, juiced
Instructions
- Make the dill Greek yogurt sauce: Combine the minced garlic, fresh dill, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and transfer to a bowl.
- Season and rub the chicken: Mix garlic, spices, and olive oil. Rub onto chicken thighs.
- Prepare the marinade: In a dish, combine onions, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add chicken and coat.
- Marinate the chicken: Refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat grill, cook chicken for 5-8 minutes per side.
- Rest: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy with dill Greek yogurt sauce!
Notes
- Browse Our Shop for quality Mediterranean ingredients including olive oils and spices to use in this recipe.
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for 2 to 4 hours or overnight.
- You can make the dill Greek yogurt sauce a night ahead. Store it in the fridge and stir before serving.
- Chicken breast can be used; adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 271.1 kcal
- Sugar: 3.5g
- Sodium: 263mg
- Fat: 15.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.3g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Carbohydrates: 7.4g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 108.9mg
