This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is so tasty and simple! The yogurt makes the chicken super tender and adds a yummy flavor that you won’t forget.
I love how quick this recipe is! Just mix yogurt and spices, coat the chicken, and let it chill a bit. And guess what? It’s perfect on the grill or in the oven! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require shorter grilling time to avoid drying out.
Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, but regular yogurt works great too! For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or non-dairy yogurt alternatives.
Spices: The spices are key! Ground cumin and paprika bring warmth and flavor. If you want more heat, go for cayenne pepper. Alternatively, feel free to experiment with taco seasoning for a different twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds color and freshness. If cilantro isn’t your thing, try parsley or omit it altogether. A sprinkle of green onion can work too!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Tender?
Marinating is the secret to juicy and tender chicken! The yogurt not only flavors the meat, but it also breaks down proteins, making it super tender.
- Mix the marinade thoroughly, ensuring it’s well combined.
- For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight. The longer, the better!
- Avoid marinating for over 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too soft.
Using this technique will elevate your chicken dish with unbeatable tenderness and flavor!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for slight heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious yogurt marinated chicken requires about 15 minutes of prep time and a minimum of 1 hour for marinating (4-6 hours is ideal). Grilling will take about 10-14 minutes, making the total time around 26-29 minutes, plus marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, optional chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl or transfer the chicken to a zip-top bag and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it sit for 4-6 hours or overnight will give you the best flavor and tenderness!
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to help prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. You can check if they’re ready by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your perfectly tender, flavorful yogurt marinated grilled chicken!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, fluffy rice, or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind that they may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Check them after about 4-5 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Plain Yogurt?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or any non-dairy yogurt alternatives that are unsweetened. Greek yogurt works best for a thicker consistency, but regular plain yogurt is just fine too!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for maximum flavor and tenderness, aim for 4-6 hours or even overnight. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours to avoid overly softening the chicken.
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
