This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, giving it a deliciously creamy taste. Perfect for grilling or baking!
I love how simple it is to make—you just mix yogurt and spices, let the chicken soak, and then cook. It’s an absolute hit at dinners and super easy to whip up on a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs makes this recipe tender and juicy. You can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may need a shorter marinating time since they can dry out faster.
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the marinade! If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or even almond yogurt. Just check that it’s unsweetened.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika give a warm, smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. If spicy isn’t for you, skip the cayenne or use a milder pepper like sweet paprika.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always better. Alternatively, lime juice can do the trick too!
How Do I Get the Chicken Really Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender chicken lies in the marinade and marinating time. Yogurt breaks down the chicken’s proteins, making them juicy. Make sure to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. Patience pays off!
- Mix all marinade ingredients well—this is where the flavor starts.
- Coat the chicken fully, so each piece is well covered.
- For even better results, let it sit longer. The acid in the yogurt will work wonders!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time for the marinade, plus at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken—though 4-6 hours or even overnight is best. Cooking on the grill takes around 10-15 minutes, making this a quick and easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth, making sure all the spices are evenly mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are coated well. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let the chicken sit for at least 2 hours—I highly recommend letting it marinate for 4-6 hours or overnight for the most flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop if you prefer.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Toss the remaining marinade away. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C and have nice grill marks).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy this delicious, juicy yogurt marinated chicken with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts; however, they may require a shorter marinating time since they can dry out more easily. Marinate for about 1–4 hours for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Just keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator. For cooking, allow the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before grilling.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can use regular plain yogurt as a substitute. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt or other plant-based yogurts work well, just ensure they are unsweetened and unflavored.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy it on salads or sandwiches for an easy meal!
