Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Yogurt marinated chicken is one of those simple recipes that delivers big results. The tangy yogurt tenderizes the chicken, locking in moisture while infusing it with rich, savory flavor from herbs and spices. The result? Chicken that’s perfectly juicy on the inside, golden and slightly charred on the outside. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can grill it, bake it, or cook it on the stovetop, and it turns out delicious every time. I once added a pinch of smoked paprika and fresh lemon juice to the marinade, and it gave the chicken an incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, prepping for a barbecue, or adding protein to salads and wraps, this yogurt marinated chicken will quickly become a favorite.
Yogurt Marinated Chicken – Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Yogurt Marinated Chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, thanks to a creamy yogurt-based marinade infused with garlic, lemon, and spices. The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful dish that can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
- Add chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4–8 hours (overnight for best flavor).
- To Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- To Pan-Sear: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–8 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- Greek yogurt works best because of its thickness and tangy flavor.
- You can use boneless thighs for more tenderness or breasts for a leaner option.
- For extra flavor, add 1 tsp garam masala or chili powder to the marinade.
- Serve with rice, naan, salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken thighs or breasts
Tender and juicy cuts that absorb the marinade beautifully.
Plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
The base of the marinade—it tenderizes the meat and keeps it moist.
Garlic
Adds bold, aromatic flavor to the marinade.
Lemon juice
Provides tanginess and helps balance the yogurt’s creaminess.
Olive oil
Enhances flavor and helps the chicken brown perfectly.
Paprika
Adds mild heat and color to the dish.
Cumin
Gives a subtle earthy flavor that complements the tangy yogurt.
Salt and pepper
Basic seasonings to bring out the natural flavors.
Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or mint)
Add brightness and freshness to the finished dish.
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the chicken pieces, coating them well in the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
To grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
To pan-sear: Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes per side.
Serve hot with rice, salad, or flatbread, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Servings and timing
Serves 4. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Marinating time: at least 1 hour (up to overnight). Cooking time: 25–30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the marinated chicken (uncooked) for up to 2 months—thaw before cooking.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy yogurt chicken
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Mediterranean style
Add oregano, dill, and garlic for a Greek-inspired twist.
Indian-style marinade
Add turmeric, garam masala, and ginger for vibrant color and aroma.
Herb and citrus blend
Mix in orange zest or rosemary for a refreshing touch.
Skewer version
Cut the chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers for easy grilling.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works best because it’s thick and flavorful.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best results.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, it works great for lamb, shrimp, or even tofu.
Do I need to add oil to the marinade?
A little oil helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents sticking.
Can I cook the chicken straight from the fridge?
Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for best results.
Can I use low-fat yogurt?
Yes, but full-fat yogurt gives the richest flavor and tenderness.
What should I serve with yogurt marinated chicken?
Rice, naan, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad pair beautifully.
Does yogurt really tenderize chicken?
Yes, its lactic acid gently breaks down proteins, making the chicken extra tender.
Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Yes, coconut or soy yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Should I wipe off the marinade before cooking?
No, cook it with a light coating of marinade for more flavor.
Conclusion
Yogurt marinated chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s juicy, tender, and full of zest. With its creamy, herby marinade and golden finish, it’s perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort—proof that the best dishes often start with the simplest ingredients.
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