This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and flavorful, thanks to a creamy yogurt mix with zesty lemon and spices. It’s a tasty dish that packs a punch!
You don’t have to be a chef to make this! Just mix the yogurt with your favorite herbs, coat the chicken, and let it chill. Easy peasy, deliciously breezy! 😄
I love serving this chicken with a fresh salad or warm pita. It’s a hit at dinner and perfect for leftovers, too. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the dish, adding creaminess and tang. If you need a dairy-free option, try unsweetened coconut yogurt or a cashew yogurt instead. Both mimic the texture and can add an interesting flavor twist!
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for marinating since they stay juicy. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too, but you might want to marinate them a little longer to enhance the moisture.
Olive Oil: This enhances the marinade’s flavor. If you’re out, substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different taste while keeping it healthy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember that 1 clove of garlic equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Lemon Juice & Zest: The lemon brings brightness to the marinade. Lime juice can work as a substitute if you need it. Zest is often overlooked, but it adds a fragrant depth that’s fantastic, so don’t skip it!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken to perfection can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it in no time! Always make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. Preheating helps to sear the meat, locking in flavors. Remember to let the chicken rest after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute!
- Preheat the grill or pan over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Move them only when you see grill marks to avoid tearing.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For Serving:
- Fresh herbs (mint and dill) for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
- Pita bread for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (up to overnight if you want extra flavor). Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. Overall, plan for around 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well until it forms a smooth marinade.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are completely coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, overnight is even better for more flavor!
3. Grilling the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade and place the chicken on the hot grill.
4. Cooking and Serving:
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has nice grill marks. Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
5. Final Touches:
Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh mint and dill, and add some lemon slices around. Serve with warm pita bread on the side if you like. Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used instead, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, consider marinating them for the same amount of time and grilling at a slightly lower temperature (medium heat) for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach 165°F. This will help keep them juicy!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the taste even more. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinated chicken a day in advance! Simply marinate the chicken and store it covered in the refrigerator. On cooking day, just take it out about 30 minutes prior to grilling to bring it to room temperature for more even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, put the chicken in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the chicken!
