Name: Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492526H21M46S
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, forming a smooth marinade.

Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.

Step 3: Refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.

Step 4: When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If grilling, lightly oil the grates.

Step 5: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the used marinade.

Step 6: Place the chicken on the grill or in a baking dish if using an oven. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve the marinated chicken garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the top.

Tips & Variations

For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight but no longer than 24 hours to prevent the yogurt’s acidity from breaking down the meat too much.

You can substitute dried oregano with fresh oregano or add fresh mint for a different herbal note.

Try serving the chicken with a side of Greek salad or warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.

If you don’t have a grill, baking the chicken in the oven is an excellent alternative that still yields juicy results.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a warm oven to prevent drying out. The marinated raw chicken can be kept refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking; avoid freezing after marinating to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which helps tenderize the chicken and creates a rich marinade. If using regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove excess liquid or expect a thinner marinade.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

Marinating for at least 1 hour is sufficient for some flavor, but marinating for 4 hours or overnight allows the spices and yogurt to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.