Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
You will love how this easy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is full of bright and tangy flavor! This simple marinade yields perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep. The unique combination of yogurt and spices not only enhances the chicken’s taste but also keeps it moist during cooking. Whether you grill it or cook it on the stovetop, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Marinade – The Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy taste that elevates the chicken.
- Easy Preparation – With minimal ingredients and steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Cooking Methods – You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken, providing flexibility based on your preferences.
- Healthy Option – Packed with protein and lower in fat, this dish fits well into a healthy eating plan.
- Great for Meal Prep – Marinate in advance for convenient meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
For preparing your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or stovetop skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients evenly for a delicious marinade.
- Grill or stovetop skillet – Both methods yield beautifully cooked chicken; grilling adds a smoky flavor while skillet cooking is quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your marinade.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup greek yogurt (plain, full-fat)
– 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill
– 1 shallot (minced)
– 3 tablespoons minced garlic
– 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
How to Make Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel if needed. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, dill, shallots, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Heat Up Your Grill
- Preheat your grill to 400F.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Place the marinated chicken thighs onto the grill, smooth side down.
- Discard any leftover marinade from the bowl.
- Grill on direct heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thigh size. Flip halfway through grilling while keeping the lid closed.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
- Remove the grilled chicken from heat and let it rest for at least five minutes before serving. If possible, cover with foil during resting.
Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken as part of a healthy meal!
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Serving Greek yogurt marinated chicken is a delightful experience that brings out its bright flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this tender and juicy dish.
With Fresh Salads
- Greek Salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
- Quinoa Salad: Toss cooked quinoa with vegetables and a lemon dressing for a hearty option.
In Wraps or Pitas
- Chicken Wrap: Slice the grilled chicken and wrap it with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce in a tortilla.
- Pita Sandwich: Stuff pita bread with chunks of chicken, cucumber, and hummus for a quick meal.
On Rice or Couscous
- Herbed Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy herbed rice for a comforting dish.
- Couscous Salad: Mix cooked couscous with vegetables and lemon to complement the chicken.
With Dips and Spreads
- Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip pairs perfectly with the marinated chicken.
- Hummus: A spread of hummus adds creaminess and flavor to your meal.
How to Perfect Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Perfecting Greek yogurt marinated chicken is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken thighs enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate Longer: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to absorb maximum flavor.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken for perfect searing.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Grill in batches if necessary to allow even cooking and browning.
- Let it Rest: Allow the grilled chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Pairing Greek yogurt marinated chicken with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and herbs before roasting for a flavorful side.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent pairing.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This fresh parsley salad adds brightness and complements the flavors of the chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances your plate’s color and taste.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and feta creates a vibrant side dish.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides contrast in texture while adding a tangy note to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Greek yogurt marinated chicken, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marinating Time: Many rush the marination process. For best results, let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least one hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old or dried-out herbs can dull flavors. Always opt for fresh dill and garlic when possible.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken thighs on the grill can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches for the best results.
- Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Neglecting to Rest Chicken: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can dry it out. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, turning regularly until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Greek yogurt marinated chicken.
How long should I marinate Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken?
Marinate for at least one hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! This marinade works well with boneless breasts or drumsticks too, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein and lower in fat compared to traditional marinades, making it a great option for healthy meals.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a balanced meal that complements the flavors of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Greek yogurt marinated chicken recipe is not only full of vibrant flavors but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding spices or using different herbs based on your preference. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Give it a try and enjoy juicy, tender chicken that bursts with taste!
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover the mouthwatering delight of Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a zesty marinade to create an unforgettable meal. With simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and spices, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Ideal for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or meal prep, the yogurt marinade ensures the chicken remains moist while infusing it with vibrant flavors. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this healthy option is packed with protein and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it in wraps, salads, or alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome dining experience.
Ingredients
- 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill
- 1 minced shallot
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken thighs and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, dill, shallots, garlic, lemon juice/zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C).
- Grill the marinated chicken thighs on direct heat for about 8 to 10 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for five minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken thighs (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
