This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! The yogurt makes the chicken super tender, and it’s simple to prepare with just a few spices and herbs.
Honestly, marinating chicken in yogurt is like giving it a cozy blanket of taste. I love throwing this together and then just letting it soak up all that goodness—so easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they may be a bit drier.
Greek Yogurt: This is key for tenderizing the chicken. If you’re out or lactose intolerant, try using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free version instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great depth, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Spices: The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and turmeric creates a warm flavor. Feel free to adjust or skip spices based on personal taste; chili powder or paprika alone can add nice flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Super Tender?
The secret to tender chicken lies in marinating it in yogurt. This helps break down the proteins, providing moisture and flavor. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the marinade well so all the spices blend perfectly.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every piece is covered.
- Let it marinate for at least 2 hours—my tip is to leave it overnight for the best results!
- When cooking, don’t rush it. Allow the chicken to get a little char without flipping it too soon—about 5-7 minutes on each side should do.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling is also important. This helps keep the juices inside, making your chicken even juicier!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 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 (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a marinating time of at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). You’ll spend about 15 minutes grilling the chicken, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, add the boneless chicken thighs into the bowl and make sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the yogurt marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to soak up all the delicious flavors—overnight is even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grates to avoid sticking. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the meat is golden brown and fully cooked—make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. After resting, transfer the chicken onto a serving platter, and garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lemon wedges.
5. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your yogurt marinated chicken right away with your favorite sides, such as rice, salad, or grilled veggies. Enjoy this tender, flavorful dish!
FAQ about Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster and could be a bit drier compared to thighs, so watch the cooking time closely—about 4-6 minutes per side should suffice!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
While 2 hours is the minimum for flavor absorption, marinating the chicken overnight is ideal for achieving maximum tenderness and flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the texture could start to break down too much.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan or broiler works great too. Just preheat your pan well and follow the same cooking times for delicious results!
What Should I Serve with Yogurt Marinated Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice or quinoa, with a fresh salad, or alongside grilled vegetables. The creamy yogurt flavor complements Mediterranean-style dishes wonderfully.
