Description
This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe features tender and flavorful chicken breasts marinated in a rich blend of Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and aromatic spices. The yogurt marinade not only adds zesty tang but also helps to keep the chicken juicy and moist. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-cooking, this dish is a healthy, protein-packed meal that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (preferably whole milk Greek yogurt)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to form a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to ensure even marination.
- Refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For best results and maximum flavor infusion, marinate overnight.
- Preheat Cooking Surface. When ready to cook, preheat your grill, oven, or pan to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. If grilling or using a pan, cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side. If baking, place the chicken in a preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it attains an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve. Once cooked through, allow the chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- Whole milk Greek yogurt yields the creamiest marinade, but low-fat options can be used.
- Leftover marinade should never be used as a sauce unless boiled thoroughly to kill bacteria.
- This recipe works well with chicken thighs as an alternative to breasts.
- Adjust spices to taste for milder or spicier variations.
