This Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! The yogurt tenderizes the chicken while adding a tasty twist with herbs and spices.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just mix yogurt with your favorite seasonings, coat the chicken, and let it marinate. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is key to making the chicken tender and adds creaminess. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but the consistency won’t be as thick. You can also try coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Chicken: Boneless skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful, but breasts can also work well. If you prefer a different protein, try this marinade on salmon or tofu for a flavorful twist!
Fresh Herbs: Dill and mint are my favorites, as they give authentic Greek flavors. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs will work, just use less since they are more concentrated.
Cumin & Paprika: These spices add depth to the flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating chicken is an easy way to infuse flavor and moisture. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix the yogurt with garlic, herbs, and spices in a good-sized bowl before adding the chicken. This ensures an even coating.
- Coat the chicken well and make sure there are no dry spots. You can also poke a few holes in the chicken with a fork to allow the marinade to penetrate better.
- Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor. You can place it in a zip-top bag for easy cleanup!
- When ready to cook, remove excess marinade so it can grill nicely without burning.
Enjoy perfectly seasoned chicken that’s ready for summer BBQs or simple weeknight dinners!
Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried mint)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh herbs (mint, dill), for garnish
- Optional: pita bread, tzatziki sauce, cucumber slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating. If you can, marinate overnight for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill takes about 12-14 minutes, making it a great option for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, mint, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined and smooth. This marinade will make your chicken super flavorful and tender!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs or breasts and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or, if you have time, overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has nice grill marks.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for moist chicken.
6. Serve:
Serve the grilled chicken garnished with fresh lemon slices and your choice of herbs. You can also pair it with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and cucumber slices for a delicious meal!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful grilled chicken with a perfect balance of Greek herbs and spices thanks to the yogurt marinade. Enjoy your delightful dish!
FAQ for Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs! Keep in mind they’ll cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than with thighs.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt works, though the thickness will differ. For a dairy-free option, try coconut or almond yogurt. Just ensure it’s unsweetened and plain!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 2 hours to overnight. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too soft.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on a skillet to avoid drying it out. Enjoy it in salads, wraps, or alongside veggies!
