Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen the other day, the sun streaming through the window and the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for recipes like this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken. This dish is not just a dinner option; it’s a delightful experience that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. The quick prep makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, while its high protein content is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Grilling it transforms the chicken into a juicy and tender masterpiece that pairs beautifully with salads, rice, or warm pita. Ready to elevate your meal prep and impress your family? Let’s dive into the flavors that await! Why is Greek Yogurt Chicken So Delicious? Flavorful Marinade: The Greek yogurt brings a creamy richness that infuses the chicken with unparalleled flavor. Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein, this dish fits perfectly into any healthy lifestyle. Quick Prep Time: With minimal ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip this up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Grill Master Appeal: Achieve a deliciously charred exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside, making it a showstopper for family gatherings or barbecues. Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside a Mediterranean salad or pair it with pita bread for a complete meal that everyone will love! Meal Prep Dream: Perfect for batch cooking, this chicken stays delicious in the fridge for days, ensuring flavorful leftovers for lunches or quick dinners. Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Tender and flavorful, providing the perfect canvas for the marinade; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts or pork chops for variety. For the Marinade • Greek Yogurt – The star of the show, adding moisture and tang; both full-fat and nonfat versions work well for this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken. • Red Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; if you prefer, substitute with white or yellow onion, or even omit entirely. • Garlic Cloves – Enhance the marinade’s flavor profile; fresh is best, but you can swap for garlic powder if needed. • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Introduces richness; avocado oil is a great alternative if you want a different flavor. • Lemon Juice – Brings brightness and acidity; fresh lemon juice is ideal, but bottled will do in a pinch—lime juice works too. • Dried Oregano – Infuses the dish with a classic Mediterranean herb flavor; thyme or rosemary can be used for a different twist. • Paprika – Adds a beautiful color and subtle flavor. • Cumin and Coriander – These spices add warmth and complexity; feel free to substitute coriander with extra cumin if needed. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Begin by placing your boneless skinless chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl. Make sure the pieces are evenly spread out to allow for thorough marination. This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken thrives on flavorful coating, so ensure you have a generous amount for each piece. Step 2: Blend the Marinade In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, quartered red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and your dried spices (oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper). Use a blender or food processor to mix until smooth and creamy. The goal is a luscious marinade that’s both savory and tangy, perfect for infusing flavor into the chicken. Step 3: Marinate the Chicken Pour the smooth marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Use your hands or a spatula to toss them gently. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours; overnight is ideal for the best flavor and tenderness. This is a crucial step for your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken! Step 4: Bring to Room Temperature About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Allowing it to come to room temperature ensures even cooking on the grill. This step is key for achieving that juicy, tender texture you’re aiming for with your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken. Step 5: Preheat the Grill Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. While it heats up, brush the grill grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking. A well-preheated grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks on your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, enhancing both appearance and flavor. Step 6: Grill the Chicken Once the grill is hot, place the chicken thighs on it. Grill each side for about 7 minutes, or until they show nice char marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Proper grilling locks in the juices and ensures a flavorful outcome for your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken. Step 7: Let It Rest After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in that perfectly juicy texture. Now, you are ready to chop your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken and serve it with your favorite sides like rice, pita, or a fresh salad. What to Serve with Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken To create a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of the chicken while satisfying your taste buds. Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, this salad adds a crisp texture and bright flavors that balance the richness of the chicken. Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic complements the marinade’s zing and provides a satisfying base for savoring every bite. Warm Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for soaking up juices and flavors; it creates a comforting hand-held experience perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add depth and a smoky flavor to your plate, creating a colorful centerpiece. Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy, tangy tzatziki made with yogurt and cucumbers enhances the chicken’s flavors; it’s a classic match for Mediterranean dishes. Lemon Quinoa: This zesty grain dish brings a bright citrus note that echoes the lemon in the marinade, enhancing the overall experience. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed side full of flavor, this salad features chickpeas, herbs, and a lemon vinaigrette, making it a hearty complement. Rosemary Focaccia: Soft and savory, this bread adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the chicken’s herb-infused marinade. Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink choice that cleanses the palate and adds zing, making it a perfect accompaniment to the grilled delight. Baklava Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with this flaky pastry layered with nuts and honey, offering a rich finish to your Mediterranean feast. Make Ahead Options These Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken thighs are a meal prep dream! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply follow the marinade instructions, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. For best results, remove the chicken from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature; this helps ensure it cooks evenly and remains juicy. The marinated chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored properly, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill and follow the cooking instructions, enjoying that same delicious smoky flavor and tenderness that makes this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken shine! How to Store and Freeze Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Fridge: Keep cooked Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: If desired, freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling for best results. Reheating: When reheating, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. Storage Tip: For optimal quality, always cool down the chicken to room temperature before sealing in your storage container to prevent moisture buildup. Expert Tips for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness. It makes a world of difference in your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken! Room Temperature: Always bring the marinated chicken to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Grill Marks Matter: Preheat your grill properly and oil the grates to achieve beautiful char marks while preventing the chicken from sticking. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F. Undercooking can lead to safety issues and overcooking can dry out the chicken. Avoid Refreezing: Do not freeze cooked chicken, as it can compromise the juicy texture. Instead, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken for a unique twist that’s sure to impress! Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that adds a tropical flair. This change will encourage a whole new flavor palette. It’s a great option for those sensitive to dairy but still wanting that tangy essence. Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a delightful heat that livens up the dish. Spice lovers will absolutely enjoy the extra zing, making this version a hit at your next barbecue! Zesty Citrus: Swap lemon juice for lime juice or a mix of both for an exciting citrus twist. This bright and refreshing change enhances the Mediterranean vibe and works beautifully with grilled chicken. Herb Boost: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to give the marinade a fresh, aromatic edge. The fragrant herbs provide a new layer of flavor, making your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken truly stand out. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a richer, smoky taste. This twist will bring a depth to the chicken that’s sure to delight everyone around your dinner table! Tangy Twist: Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of vinegar for an extra depth of flavor. This adds a delightful zing that complements the creamy marinade and enhances the overall taste profile. Veggie Variant: For a veggie alternative, try marinating and grilling portobello mushrooms or zucchini slices. They will soak up the delicious marinade, becoming juicy and packed with flavor—perfect for your vegetarian guests! Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced pineapple or peaches into the marinade for a touch of sweetness. The fruity flavors balance the savory, offering a deliciously unique experience that’s perfect for summer grilling! Consider pairing this mouthwatering chicken with a refreshing Mediterranean salad or some warm pita bread to complete your meal with a delightful touch! Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use? Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute them with chicken breasts, pork chops, or even lamb for a different twist. Each will soak up the marinade beautifully, but keep an eye on cooking times, especially with thinner cuts like chicken breasts. How should I store leftovers? To keep your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup which can lead to sogginess. If it starts to develop any dark spots or an off smell, it’s best to discard it. Can I freeze marinated chicken? Very! You can freeze uncooked chicken in the flavorful marinade. Simply place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag, remove any excess air, and seal it tightly. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and grill as per the instructions! What’s the best way to reheat cooked chicken? When reheating cooked Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with foil to keep moisture in, and warm it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it stays juicy and flavorful! Can I use this marinade for other proteins? Absolutely! This marinade isn’t just limited to chicken. It’s wonderful with pork and lamb too. Each protein takes on the creamy, tangy flavors beautifully, just remember to adjust your cooking times as needed due to differences in thickness and type of meat. Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies? Unfortunately, no. Since the Greek yogurt is the base of the marinade, this recipe is not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using a dairy-free yogurt or blended tofu, though it may alter the flavor profile a bit. Grill Up Juicy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Tonight! This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a healthy, protein-packed dish perfect for busy weeknights, grilling up to juicy perfection. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 14 minutes minsMarinating Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 29 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Tender and flavorfulFor the Marinade1 cup Greek Yogurt Both full-fat and nonfat work well1 medium Red Onion Quartered4 cloves Garlic Minced3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh is ideal, bottled will do1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can substitute with thyme or rosemary1 teaspoon Paprika1 teaspoon Cumin Adds warmth1 teaspoon Coriander Can substitute with extra cumin1 salt Salt To taste1 pepper Black Pepper To taste Equipment GrillMixing bowlBlenderMeat Thermometer Method Preparation StepsPrepare the Chicken: Place your chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even spread for thorough marination.Blend the Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, quartered red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dried spices. Blend until smooth and creamy.Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.Bring to Room Temperature: About 30 minutes before cooking, remove chicken from the fridge to reach room temperature.Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) and brush grates with oil.Grill the Chicken: Place chicken thighs on the grill and cook each side for about 7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.Let It Rest: Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFor optimal flavor, marinate chicken overnight and ensure it comes to room temperature before grilling. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
