Green Goddess Aji Sauce and Chicken Thighs

Green Goddess Aji Sauce and Chicken Thighs

This Green Goddess Aji-Marinated Chicken Thighs recipe is packed with bold, refreshing flavors thanks to a vibrant blend of soy sauce, oregano, garlic, and homemade Aji Summer Sauce. Marinated to perfection and seared until juicy and golden, each bite is tender, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy. Drizzle with extra Aji sauce for a simple yet crave-worthy dish that's perfect for summer grilling or an easy weeknight dinner.

Recipe by Grass Roots Partner Celyna Trevino @celynacilantro   

  • makes:
    6
  • total time:
    8-24 hrs to marinade and cooking time aprox 30 mins
  • cooking difficulty:
    Easy
  • Tags:

Ingredients

Olive Oil
3 tsp
Green Goddess Aji Sauce:
Plain Greek Yogurt
2 ½ cups
Fresh Cilantro (washed and roughly chopped)
½ bunch
Limes, juiced
2
Garlic Clove, peeled
1
Ripe Avocado, peeled and pitted
1
Salt
1 tsp
Pepper
1 tsp
Serrano or Jalapeño pepper (adjust to taste)
1
Marinade:
Soy Sauce
1 cup
Oregano
2 Tbsp
Garlic Cloves , minced
2

Utensils

  • Large bowl or Gallon Zip-Top bag
  • Tongs
  • Skillet
  • Blender or Food Processor

Instructions

Prepare the Green Goddess Aji Sauce:

  1. Prepare all of the ingredients before combining.
    Wash the cilantro thoroughly and trim off any tough stems. Roughly chop the pepper and if you prefer a milder level of spice, remove the seeds.

  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, cleaned cilantro, lime juice, avocado, garlic, chopped pepper, salt, and black pepper.
    Blend until mostly smooth, leaving a bit of texture if desired.

  3. Transfer 1 Cup of the sauce to a serving bowl for immediate use.
    Store the remaining sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

 

Prepare the Marinade:

  1. In a large gallon-size zip-top bag or mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oregano, minced garlic, and 1 cup of Green Goddess Aji Sauce.

  2. Add the chicken thighs to the bag or bowl. If using a bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible, and gently massage the marinade into the chicken.
    If using a bowl, ensure the chicken is well-coated, then cover with a lid or plastic wrap.

  3. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. Turn the bag or stir the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.

  2. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 6 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep, golden sear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F to 175°F.

  3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. Just before serving, drizzle with extra Aji Sauce for a rich, tangy finish.

  4. Serve over rice or alongside roasted veggies.

Recent Posts

Hot Honey Chicken Wings
Hot Honey Chicken Wings

These Hot Honey Grilled Wings are next-level delicious! Sweet, spicy, smoky, and charred to perfection.

Grass-Fed Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper
Grass-Fed Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper

This quick and hearty ground beef skillet is a go-to comfort meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, it comes together in minutes using simple ingredients like onion, kidney beans, enchilada sauce, and your favorite spices.

Green Goddess Aji Sauce and Chicken Thighs
Green Goddess Aji Sauce and Chicken Thighs

This Green Goddess Aji-Marinated Chicken Thighs recipe is packed with bold, refreshing flavors thanks to a vibrant blend of soy sauce, oregano, garlic, and homemade herbaceous sauce.