This Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making each bite super moist and delicious!
I love how simple it is to whip up; just mix some yogurt with spices, coat the chicken, and let it marinate. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for this dish due to their flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be cautious as they can dry out more easily during cooking.
Yogurt: I recommend using plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt works too for a thicker marinade. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or almond yogurt as good alternatives.
Spices: The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric adds depth. Don’t have something? Experiment! For example, use curry powder instead of turmeric or leave out the chili powder if you prefer mild flavors.
Fresh Cilantro: It’s perfect for garnish, but if you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can add a nice touch instead.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling can be tricky, but with some attention, you can get it just right! Here’s how:
- After marinating, shake off excess marinade. This helps prevent flare-ups on the grill.
- Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing on the chicken. This way, you’ll get nice grill marks!
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Using a meat thermometer is a smart move; aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before slicing. This keeps the juices inside!
Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then needs at least 1 hour to marinate. For best results, marinate for 4-6 hours or overnight. Cooking the chicken on the grill will take around 10-15 minutes. So, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes if you marinate overnight! Perfectly easy!
Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, chili powder (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Stir until it’s all well blended into a nice and creamy marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, let it sit for 4-6 hours or even overnight to soak in all those delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to get that nice char and cook all the way through until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that zesty flavor! Enjoy your easy and juicy yogurt marinated chicken with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also work well. Just be mindful to not overcook them, as they can dry out more easily. Aim for a cooking time of about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, it’s ideal to marinate for 4-6 hours or overnight. Just don’t exceed 24 hours, as the acidity can start to break down the meat too much.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Can I Freeze the Marinated Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag and it should last for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
