This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is tender and juicy, thanks to a creamy yogurt bath filled with spices. It’s a delicious way to add flavor with minimal effort!
I love how simple it is to prep! Just mix yogurt with some spices, slather it on the chicken, and off it goes into the fridge. The hardest part? Waiting for it to marinate! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Plain Yogurt: I recommend using Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade that clings beautifully to the chicken. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a soy-based yogurt instead.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. If you don’t have it, canola or avocado oil works just as well.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings vibrant flavor. For a shortcut, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is better for taste.
Spices: Each spice adds a unique flavor profile. Feel free to mix and match based on what you like! For a milder version, skip the chili powder.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different cut, chicken drumsticks or bone-in pieces can also work, but may require longer cooking times.
How Do I Get the Chicken Really Tender?
Marinating in yogurt not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken thanks to its acidity. Here are the steps to get it just right:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but for the best results, aim for overnight.
- Ensure every piece of chicken is evenly coated in the marinade; this helps it to absorb flavor evenly.
- When cooking, avoid high heat that can dry out the chicken. A medium heat allows for a nice, evenly cooked result.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have wonderfully tender chicken every time!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 2 hours of marination time (preferably overnight for better flavor). Cooking time is roughly 20-25 minutes, depending on your method and the thickness of the chicken. Total time can be approximately 2-3 hours including marination and cooking. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground coriander, chili powder (if you want some heat), and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and smooth.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces into the bowl and use a spatula or your hands to thoroughly coat each piece in the yogurt marinade. Make sure they are well covered to absorb all those yummy flavors.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. For the best taste and tenderness, leave it overnight!
4. Get Ready to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill, oven (to 400°F / 200°C), or skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial to get that perfect sear on your chicken.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. If you’re cooking in the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Grill or sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or cook in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, let the chicken rest on a plate for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, giving you a juicy bite every time!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious chicken with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor! Serve it alongside steamed rice, a fresh salad, or any of your favorite sides.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful yogurt marinated chicken!
FAQ for Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use a Different Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with various proteins. You can use pork tenderloin, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! You can modify the spices based on what you have. A simple combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt can still yield delicious results. Feel free to experiment!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes! Marinating the chicken for longer than overnight can enhance the flavors even more. Just be cautious—marinating for more than 24 hours may start to break down the chicken too much, making it mushy.
