Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

There’s something timeless and comforting about a simple, flavorful chicken dinner that brings everyone to the table. This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is exactly that kind of dish. With roots tracing back to traditional Mediterranean cooking, this recipe embraces the simplicity and richness of Greek flavors. Greek yogurt has long been a staple in many kitchens—not just as a breakfast favorite or a healthy snack, but also as a secret weapon in marinades. Its thick texture and natural acidity tenderize meat beautifully, making it juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Growing up, this kind of dish was a go-to for family cookouts and cozy weeknight dinners. The tangy yogurt marinade would always make the kitchen smell amazing, especially once it hit the grill or pan. It’s one of those recipes you can rely on for both everyday meals and casual entertaining, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for something simple and healthy, or you just want to shake up your usual chicken routine, this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Tender and juicy: The yogurt tenderizes the chicken like a charm, keeping it moist even after cooking.
• Packed with flavor: Garlic, lemon, and spices give it a bold, zesty kick.
• Versatile: Grill it, bake it, or pan-sear it. Serve it in wraps, over salads, or with a side of rice or veggies.
• Healthy and simple: High in protein, low in fuss. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

HOW TO MAKE GREEK YOGURT MARINATED CHICKEN:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Mix the marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices. The yogurt should be creamy and smooth, coating the back of your spoon. You’ll notice the aroma of garlic and lemon instantly pop—it already smells amazing before the chicken even hits it!

Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over it. Make sure every piece is well coated. Massage the marinade into the meat for a minute to really work in those flavors. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—though if you’ve got the time, leaving it overnight makes the flavor even more intense and the chicken extra tender.

Step 3: Cook your chicken
When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. You can grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it depending on your preference. For grilling or pan-frying, aim for medium-high heat and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and cook for 25-30 minutes.

Step 4: Let it rest and serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those lovely juices locked in. Serve it up with a fresh salad, some herby rice, or wrapped in warm pita with a little tzatziki.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Don’t skip the marinating time. Even 30 minutes makes a big difference, but overnight is gold.
• Use full-fat yogurt if you can. It adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist.
• Thinly slice before serving for wraps or bowls. It makes the dish feel more put-together and easier to eat.
• Double the batch. This chicken stores well and works great for meal prep throughout the week.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grill, Bake, or Pan-fry
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: High-Protein, Gluten-Free

NOTES:

You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts or even drumsticks—just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For added flavor, throw in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Per serving – approximate)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Yes! Coconut or almond-based yogurts work, just make sure they’re plain and unsweetened.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is good, but overnight in the fridge gives the best results.

Can I freeze it?
You can freeze the marinated chicken raw. Just defrost overnight in the fridge before cooking.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in a skillet or microwave. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months—perfect for quick meals later on.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
• Flavor-Packed Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl
• Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
• Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce

CONCLUSION

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is one of those reliable, feel-good recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s healthy, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile—ideal for a quick dinner, a backyard cookout, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish fits right into any kitchen routine with ease. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chicken recipe!

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