This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a juicy delight! The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it super flavorful and oh-so-tender. Add some spices for a tasty twist!
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Just mix yogurt with herbs, coat the chicken, and let it sit. You’ll have a meal that’s bursting with flavor in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the marinade, providing creaminess and tang. I love using full-fat Greek yogurt for extra richness, but you can use low-fat if you’re watching calories. If you’re dairy-free, look for a plant-based yogurt made from almond or coconut milk.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for quick cooking. Thighs could also work well for juicier meat, and they stand up beautifully to marinades. If you want a different flavor, consider using turkey breasts as an alternative.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor, but you can swap it for avocado oil or another neutral oil if you prefer something lighter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for adding that robust flavor. Pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can substitute in a pinch, though fresh will always deliver the best taste.
Lemon: The bright zest and juice really elevate the marinade. Lime juice is a great substitute, or you could use vinegar for a different acidity level, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do You Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
To keep chicken juicy, a few simple tricks make all the difference. First, the yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while adding flavor, so don’t skip marinating. Make sure not to cook the chicken too long; aim for a golden brown crust.
- Start with medium-high heat to sear the outside and lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) means it’s perfect.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing. This keeps all those tasty juices inside!
Delicious Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Pita bread or flatbreads, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate. The grilling time is around 12-14 minutes. For the best flavor, marinating overnight is recommended, though even a short 1-hour soak works well!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully blended. This marinade is where all the flavors combine to make your chicken delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have the time, overnight for even more flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Now, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a nice char.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint, and serve with lemon wedges and pita or flatbreads if you like. Enjoy your flavorful Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken!
Can I Use Regular Yogurt Instead of Greek Yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but keep in mind that it may be thinner and won’t create as thick a coating on the chicken. For a closer texture to Greek yogurt, try straining regular yogurt through a cheesecloth for a few hours before using it in the marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, marinate it for 4 to 12 hours. If you need to marinate for more than 12 hours, keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours to avoid over-tenderizing the chicken.
Can I Cook the Chicken in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This method will keep the chicken juicy and flavorful as well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture when reheating.
