This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and full of flavor! The yogurt tenderizes the meat and adds a creamy taste that everyone will love.
I enjoy making this dish for dinner! It’s super simple—just mix up yogurt with spices and let the chicken soak. Easy peasy, right? Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they might cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them!
Yogurt: Both Greek yogurt and regular yogurt work well. Greek yogurt is thicker and adds a creamy texture, while regular gives a slightly tangier flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt instead!
Spices: The combination of cumin, paprika, and turmeric gives this dish a delicious flavor. If you don’t have one, feel free to replace it with a similar spice. For instance, smoked paprika can replace regular paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Cilantro: I love the fresh touch cilantro adds, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute! Or just skip the herbs altogether if you’re keeping it simple.
How Do I Marinate Chicken to Ensure Full Flavor?
Marinating is key for tender and flavorful chicken! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade thoroughly to combine all flavors. Make sure the garlic, spices, and yogurt are well blended.
- Coat the chicken completely in the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to make sure it’s evenly covered.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but aim for 4-6 hours or overnight if you can for the best results.
- When ready to grill, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
This marinating process makes all the difference for juicy and tasty chicken—you’ll love it!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation. After that, you should marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours—although letting it sit for 4-6 hours or overnight is best. Cooking will add around 15 minutes. So, plan for about 2.5 hours total, plus chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using), along with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to coat each piece thoroughly. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Aim to marinate for at least 2 hours or, if you have the time, overnight for even better flavor.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has beautiful grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the delicious, grilled chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges alongside. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful chicken with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just be aware that they may cook slightly faster, so check the internal temperature and adjust grilling time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours for good flavor, but for the best results, aim for 4-6 hours or even overnight. Just remember to cover the chicken in the refrigerator while it marinates!
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or flatbreads are also great accompaniments. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
