This easy yogurt marinated chicken is tender and bursting with flavor! The yogurt helps keep the chicken moist while adding a yummy taste from spices.
I love how simple this recipe is. Just mix yogurt with your favorite spices, coat the chicken, and let it sit. Easy peasy, and perfect for dinner any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts also work well, but they might need a bit more marinating time to stay juicy. Drumsticks could be a fun alternative too!
Greek Yogurt: The yogurt is key for keeping the chicken moist and adding flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. They won’t taste the same but can still provide creaminess.
Spices: I love the combination of spices in this marinade. If you want to switch it up, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of the dried spices. You could also use curry powder for a different flavor twist!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice can work in a pinch but try to stick with natural, unsweetened options for the best flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish with a rich flavor. Garlic powder can be an alternative, but fresh really does make a difference, especially in the marinade.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips that always help me:
- Make sure to preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Let excess marinade drip off the chicken before placing it on the grill. Too much marinade can cause flare-ups!
- Don’t flip the chicken too often! Let it sear for about 5-7 minutes on one side before flipping to develop a nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling is essential. This lets the juices redistribute for even more deliciousness! Enjoy your flavorful yogurt marinated chicken!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Olive oil or cooking spray for the grill or pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious yogurt marinated chicken takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and should be marinated for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. Grill time is about 10-15 minutes, making this a simple and quick dish to prepare for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and make sure each piece is well-coated with the yogurt marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will give you even better flavor and tenderness!
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 or the pan surface with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place the thighs on the hot grill. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the chicken to be nicely charred and have a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes. This helps to lock in the juices. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro, and add lemon wedges for an extra zing.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the yogurt marinated chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe creates juicy grilled chicken with a delicate hint of smoky spices and fresh herbs, perfectly complemented by the tang of the yogurt marinade. It’s an easy and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and perhaps marinate them a bit longer to ensure they remain juicy!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you have time, letting it sit overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more!
What Can I Serve with Yogurt Marinated Chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or in a wrap. Don’t forget to squeeze those lemon wedges over the top for extra brightness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
