This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is super juicy and full of flavor! The yogurt helps to make the chicken tender, while spices add a tasty kick. It’s a win-win!
I love how simple this recipe is—just mix yogurt and spices, coat the chicken, and let it marinate. You can even make it ahead for busy nights. Perfect for a quick meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay moist and flavorful. If you prefer white meat, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on cooking time—they can dry out faster!
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is perfect for marinating as it adds creaminess and tenderness. If you want a dairy-free option, you can try coconut yogurt, but the flavor will change a bit.
Spices: Each spice adds a unique flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too! You could also add a pinch of chili powder for some heat, if you like.
Fresh Cilantro: I think fresh cilantro adds a nice touch at the end! If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute, or you can skip it altogether.
How Can I Get My Chicken Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! The key is to preheat your grill so it’s nice and hot to lock in flavors.
- Ensure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding chicken. This helps to get those beautiful grill marks!
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) means it’s ready!
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite super tender.
Follow these tips, and you’ll serve up perfect yogurt marinated chicken every time!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 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
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating (or longer for best flavor). Cooking on the grill will take around 12 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including marination time, to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined into a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece of chicken is completely coated in the yogurt mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you have time, marinating overnight gives the chicken the best flavor!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates with a brush or paper towel to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You want your chicken to have nice grill marks!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Garnish it with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. This adds a nice zesty flavor!
Now enjoy your juicy, tender, and flavorful yogurt marinated chicken! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun barbecue with friends. Yum!
FAQ for Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just remember that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness at around 4-5 minutes per side.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 2 hours, but for maximum flavor and tenderness, marinating overnight is ideal! Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator during the marinating process.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt will work too, but it’s best not to use flavored or sweetened varieties. You could also try a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut yogurt, keeping in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, but be careful not to overcook to keep the chicken tender.
