This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and full of flavor. The yogurt keeps the chicken tender, while spices give it a tasty twist. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner!
I find marinating the chicken overnight makes a big difference. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice or a fresh salad. Who doesn’t love a simple yet delicious meal? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. You could use chicken breasts instead, but they may require careful attention to prevent drying out.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt is key for tenderizing the chicken. Greek yogurt offers a creamier texture, while regular yogurt works just as well. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt!
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika add warm flavors. If you don’t have them, replace cumin with chili powder and smoked paprika with regular paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. One teaspoon of garlic powder is about equal to a clove of garlic.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling the chicken properly ensures it’s not only cooked through but also has that nice char. Follow these simple steps for success:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear on the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Space out the chicken pieces to allow for even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the magic number for safety!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps the juices inside, giving you a juicy bite every time.
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours of marinating time (overnight is best!). Grilling the chicken takes about 10-15 minutes, bringing your total to around 2 hours and 30 minutes, mostly hands-off while the chicken soaks up all that flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks creamy.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure to coat each piece evenly in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can, let it sit overnight for bigger flavor!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Give the grill grates a light oiling to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be charred and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lemon wedges. This chicken is delicious served hot with sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful yogurt marinated chicken! It’s bound to impress everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster than thighs. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked without drying out.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend marinating overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can add a nice flavor boost!
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use it in salads, wraps, or as a protein addition to your favorite dishes!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can easily bake the marinated chicken! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve a nice char if you like!
