Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Name: Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt; 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill; 1 minced shallot; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 lemon (juiced and zested); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 8, 2025

Updated:

June 8, 2025

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You will love how this easy Greek yogurt marinated chicken is full of bright and tangy flavor! This dish is perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep. With its simple marinade, it yields perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time. Whether you throw it on the grill or cook it on the stovetop, this Greek yogurt marinated chicken will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort with a straightforward marinade that does all the work.
Flavorful Results: The combination of Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates any meal.
Versatile Cooking Options: Cook it on the grill or stovetop; this recipe adapts to your cooking style.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish fits into a healthy diet.
Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or plan meals for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Greek yogurt marinated chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Grill or stovetop pan
Tongs
Measuring spoons
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken thoroughly.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing it, preserving its juiciness.
Cutting board: A clean surface for chopping ingredients like shallots and herbs.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 the following ingredients:
* Greek yogurt
* Fresh dill
* Minced shallots
* Minced garlic
* Lemon juice and zest
* Salt
* Pepper
* Paprika
* Dried oregano

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Toss well to coat all pieces in the marinade. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least one hour or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to about 400°F (200°C).

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs onto the grill, smooth side down. Discard any leftover marinade in the bowl. Grill for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep the lid closed between flips for even cooking.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

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

Enjoy your delicious Greek yogurt marinated chicken as part of a healthy meal!

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Serving Greek yogurt marinated chicken can be a delightful experience, as its flavor profile pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

Fresh Salad

Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a refreshing side that complements the tangy chicken.
Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast that brightens the meal.

Grains

Quinoa: Serve the chicken over quinoa for a nutritious base that absorbs the flavors of the marinade.
Couscous: Fluffy couscous is an excellent side, allowing you to soak up any juices from the chicken.

Wraps

Pita Wraps: Slice the chicken and serve it in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap pieces of chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with your favorite toppings.

Sides

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil makes for a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf adds a hearty touch and makes for an inviting presentation on your plate.

How to Perfect Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Achieving perfectly marinated chicken is all about technique. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, boneless skinless thighs for juicy results; they absorb marinades well.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness significantly.
Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh dill or other herbs for vibrant flavor; dried herbs can lose potency over time.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that perfect sear and keeps it juicy.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, preventing dryness when cut.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; adding cumin or coriander can give a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Pairing Greek yogurt marinated chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy cucumber sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling over grilled chicken.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A vibrant blend of couscous, veggies, and herbs adds freshness and crunch.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears provide a bright and healthy contrast to rich flavors.
Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is great for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a lovely balance to the tanginess of the marinated chicken.
Cauliflower Rice: A light alternative that pairs well without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream make a comforting addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be an art, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to keep in mind.

Skipping the Marination Time: Many people underestimate the importance of marinating time. Allowing the chicken to soak in the Greek yogurt marinade for at least 1 hour (or overnight) ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.
Using Low-Fat Yogurt: Opting for low-fat yogurt can lead to dry chicken. Full-fat Greek yogurt is essential for a rich, creamy marinade that keeps the chicken juicy.
Not Patting Dry the Chicken: Failing to pat the chicken dry can result in a watery marinade. Make sure to use a paper towel to remove excess moisture before marinating.
Discarding Marinade Too Early: Some cooks throw away the marinade too soon. It’s important to discard any leftover marinade after coating the chicken, as it may harbor bacteria from raw meat.
Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking can lead to tough and dry chicken. Keep an eye on cooking times and use a meat thermometer for best results—165°F is your target.

Refrigerator Storage

Store marinated Greek yogurt marinated chicken in an airtight container.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Ensure that it is properly sealed to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.

Freezing Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Freeze the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated throughout.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of water or broth, and slowly warm the chicken while covering with a lid for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken so tender?

The acidity in Greek yogurt helps break down proteins in the chicken, making it tender and juicy while infusing flavor.

How long should I marinate Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken?

For best results, marinate your chicken thighs for at least 1 hour but preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Can I use other cuts of chicken with this marinade?

Yes! While this recipe uses thighs, you can also use boneless skinless breasts or even drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein and lower in fat compared to traditional marinades, making it a healthy option for meal prep or dinner.

Can I customize the marinade?

Definitely! Feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether grilled or cooked on the stovetop, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike. Experiment with different herbs and spices to make this dish uniquely yours! Enjoy this delicious meal as part of your healthy eating plan today!