Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

You will love how this easy Greek yogurt marinated chicken is full of bright and tangy flavor! It is such a simple marinade that yields perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time. Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking, this recipe is ideal for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. The standout qualities of this dish include its healthy ingredients and vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just mix the ingredients together and let the chicken marinate. It’s almost effortless!
• Flavorful Marinade: The blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs creates a marinade that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Grill or cook on the stovetop; this recipe suits any cooking method you prefer.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and nutritious ingredients, it’s a guilt-free choice for any meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead of time and have delicious meals ready to go during the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Grill or stovetop pan
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the marinade ingredients easily without spills.
• Grill or stovetop pan: These are essential for cooking the chicken to perfection, giving it that desirable char.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your marinade.
• Whisk or spoon for mixing: Properly blending the marinade helps distribute flavors evenly across the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs

For the Marinade

• 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:
– Greek yogurt
– Dill
– Shallots
– Garlic
– Lemon juice
– Lemon zest
– Salt
– Pepper
– Paprika
– Dried oregano

Add the chicken thighs and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and let marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Heat Up Your Grill

Preheat your grill to 400°F.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs onto the grill with the smooth side down. Discard any leftover marinade in the bowl. Grill for about 8 to 10 minutes on direct heat, flipping halfway through. Keep the grill lid closed while grilling for optimal results.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for at least five minutes before serving. If possible, cover it with foil to retain warmth.

Enjoy your flavorful Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken as part of a healthy meal!

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken is versatile and pairs well with numerous dishes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Salad

• Fresh Greens: Serve the grilled chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
• Mediterranean Salad: Combine the chicken with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a flavorful twist.

In a Wrap

• Pita Wraps: Stuff warm pita bread with sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce for a quick lunch.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken in tortillas with your favorite veggies and a spread like hummus.

With Dips

• Hummus Platter: Serve sliced chicken alongside an assortment of hummus flavors for dipping.
• Yogurt Dip: Pair the chicken with a tangy yogurt-based dip or tzatziki for added flavor.

As an Entrée

• Grilled Chicken Plate: Serve the chicken whole on a plate accompanied by rice or quinoa and roasted vegetables.
• Skewers: Cut the chicken into chunks and serve on skewers with bell peppers and onions for easy eating.

How to Perfect Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Achieving succulent Greek yogurt marinated chicken is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs like dill and quality garlic to enhance flavor.
• Marinate longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight if possible.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken for better sear marks and flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd: Give each piece space on the grill to cook evenly without steaming.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest before slicing helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Greek yogurt marinated chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful main course.

1. Couscous Salad: A light salad made with couscous, chopped vegetables, herbs, and lemon juice.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make an excellent accompaniment.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with spices and herbs adds nutritious value to your plate.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled until crisp-tender enhances the meal’s freshness.
5. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce featuring cucumber and garlic complements the spices in the chicken.
6. Greek Rice: Flavored rice cooked with broth, lemon, and herbs pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Greek yogurt marinated chicken, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly skip the marinating time: Rushing the marinating process can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor infusion.
• Boldly ignore ingredient quality: Using low-quality yogurt can impact the taste. Always select plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best results.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can leave your chicken flat. Ensure you measure salt and spices accurately to enhance flavor.
• Boldly use untrimmed chicken thighs: Fatty pieces can create an unappealing texture. Trim excess fat before marinating to ensure even cooking.
• Boldly forget about resting: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can result in dry meat. Allow the chicken to rest for at least five minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek yogurt marinated chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

• Place marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a little oil, turning occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Greek yogurt marinated chicken:

What is Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken?

Greek yogurt marinated chicken is a flavorful dish where chicken is soaked in a mixture of Greek yogurt and spices, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

How long should I marinate Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This marinade works well with turkey or lamb as alternatives.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

You can substitute dried dill or other herbs like thyme or parsley if fresh dill is unavailable.

How do I know when my Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor! It’s perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking and allows plenty of room for customization—add your favorite herbs or spices for a unique twist. Give it a try; you’ll love how versatile and delicious it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 (based on using two thighs per serving) 1x

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Description

Get ready to savor the vibrant flavors of Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious! This recipe features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a creamy blend of Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon juice. The result is tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for quick weeknight meal prep, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with salads, wraps, and dips. Plus, it’s a healthy option filled with nutritious ingredients. Elevate your dining experience and impress your family and friends with this simple yet flavorful recipe!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Pat dry the chicken thighs and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, dill, shallots, garlic, lemon juice and zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat your grill to 400°F.
5. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 8 to 10 minutes on direct heat, flipping halfway through until fully cooked.
6. Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (120g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg