This Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is super tender and flavorful! The tangy yogurt helps make the chicken juicy, while herbs add a fresh kick!
I love how simple this recipe is—just mix the yogurt with some spices, coat the chicken, and let it marinate. It’s perfect for busy nights and tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the marinade! It makes the chicken super tender and adds a tangy flavor. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt works too, but you might want to use less since it’s thinner.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they’re juicy and flavorful. If you prefer chicken breasts, they’ll work as well—just make sure to watch them closely as they can dry out faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or any neutral oil. Just avoid strong oils like sesame as they can overwhelm the flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Try thyme or rosemary. For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like dill or mint also complement this dish beautifully!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender and Moist?
The key to juicy chicken is marination! The Greek yogurt in this recipe works wonders. When you cover the chicken in the marinade and let it sit, the acid from the lemon juice starts to break down the protein, making it tender.
- For the best results, aim for at least 2 hours of marination. Overnight is even better!
- Don’t skip the resting step post-grilling—this helps the juices redistribute.
- Watch the grill heat; cooking over high heat helps get those lovely grill marks while keeping the inside moist.
Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh mint and dill for garnish or to mix in marinade
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and at least 2 hours for marinating. If possible, try to marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor! Then plan for another 12-15 minutes for grilling. Overall, it’s a simple process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s creamy and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken pieces and add them to the marinade. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but 4-6 hours or overnight is even better to really soak in those flavors!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This is key for getting a nice char on your chicken!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade (let the extra drip off) and discard any leftover marinade. Grill each piece for about 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want it to be cooked through and have lovely char marks!
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside!
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the chicken hot with lemon wedges, a sprinkle of fresh mint or dill for garnish, and a side of pita or flatbread. For a delicious dip, add tzatziki sauce on the side to complete your meal!
Enjoy every bite of your juicy, tender, and flavorful Greek yogurt marinated chicken!
FAQ for Easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts work well, but since they can dry out faster, be sure to monitor them closely while grilling. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re cooked but still juicy.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor and tenderness, it’s ideal to marinate it for 4-6 hours or even overnight. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours as the yogurt can start to break down the chicken too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes it perfect for meal prep or planning for a grill-out with friends!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy it in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
