This yogurt marinated chicken is juicy and bursting with flavor. The yogurt makes it tender while spices add a tasty kick that everyone will love!
I love how simple this recipe is—just mix the yogurt and spices, coat the chicken, and let it sit. It’s a great way to impress guests without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and are full of flavor. You can swap them for chicken breasts, but remember they might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.
Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, but regular yogurt works well too. If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or almond yogurt, just ensure they’re unsweetened.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a delicious smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use regular paprika or even chili powder for a different twist. Ground cumin and coriander are key to the dish, but you can substitute with curry powder if that’s what you have.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great swap. Or you can skip it altogether and still have delicious chicken!
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right!
- Preheat the grill properly. Make sure it’s hot before adding chicken. This helps prevent sticking and gives great grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Leave space between the chicken pieces so they cook evenly.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest after grilling. This helps keep the juices inside, making the chicken tender.
Enjoy making this dish! It’s perfect for family dinners or BBQs with friends.
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 to 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken. If possible, marinating overnight will give the best flavor and tenderness. Cooking on the grill will take approximately 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 25 minutes to get everything ready and on the table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if you like a little spice), ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything well until it’s nicely blended, creating a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to your marinade, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. This will help tenderize the meat and soak in all those delicious flavors. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Before placing the chicken on the grill, brush the grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place the thighs on the hot grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and see those beautiful grill marks.
5. Serve Up:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with more chopped cilantro for color and freshness, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick when eating.
6. Enjoy!
Savor your juicy yogurt marinated grilled chicken with a side of rice, salad, or flatbread. This flavorful dish is sure to impress your family and friends!
This easy marinade not only makes the chicken tender but also infuses it with a smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor. The fresh cilantro and lemon really brighten up the dish perfectly. Enjoy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but be aware that they may dry out more quickly than thighs. If using breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best flavor and tenderness, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the yogurt can start to break down the meat too much.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Grill?
If you don’t have a grill, no problem! You can cook the marinated chicken on a stovetop grill pan or in a broiler. Just preheat the pan or broiler and cook the chicken for about the same time, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked through.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet on low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
