Name: Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491490H30M15S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1½-2 lbs chicken cutlets (about 8 pieces); 1/2 cup plain full fat Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup); 1 tsp lemon zest; 5 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped fine); 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp coriander; 1/4 tsp cumin

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 80 reviews

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If you’ve been searching for a juicy, flavorful chicken dish that’s easy to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, this Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. The magic lies in the creamy yogurt marinade, which tenderizes the chicken wonderfully while infusing it with vibrant herbs, spices, and a hint of citrus. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe promises tender, aromatic chicken cutlets that are bursting with flavor from the very first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

An oval white plate holds seven grilled chicken pieces arranged in two rows, each piece showing a golden brown color with darker grilled marks and spices scattered across the surface. The chicken pieces have a slightly crispy texture and are placed on a light, soft blue plate. There are four lemon wedges placed around the chicken, their bright yellow contrasting with the brown of the grilled meat. Small sprigs of fresh green parsley are scattered on the plate, some tucked under the chicken pieces, adding a fresh pop of color. The plate rests on a white marbled textured surface, with a white cloth and salt and pepper shakers near the corners. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe plays an essential role in building a symphony of flavors and textures—simple staples that combine to create something truly special on your plate.

Chicken cutlets (1½-2 lbs): Choose boneless for quick, even cooking and perfect marinade absorption.
Plain full fat Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Acts as the tenderizing base, making the chicken irresistibly soft and juicy.
Olive oil (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
Honey (1 tbsp): Balances the tang and spices with a touch of natural sweetness.
Lemon juice (1 lemon, about 1/4 cup): Brightens the marinade with fresh, zesty acidity.
Lemon zest (1 tsp): Intensifies citrus flavor for a fragrant finish.
Garlic cloves, minced (5): Infuses a robust, savory depth that pairs beautifully with yogurt.
Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tbsp): Lends a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
Salt (1/2 tsp or more): Enhances every flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
Paprika (1/2 tsp): Offers a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Deepens the savory profile without overpowering.
Dried oregano (1/2 tsp): Introduces Mediterranean warmth.
Dried basil (1/2 tsp): Brings a sweet, aromatic touch.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp): Provides a gentle kick of heat to wake up the palate.
Coriander (1/4 tsp): Adds a bright, citrusy undertone.
Cumin (1/4 tsp): Warms up the flavor with earthy, nutty notes.

How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining the yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and all the spices and herbs in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and fragrant. This marinade is the heart of your dish, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken cutlets to the marinade and toss until every piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the yogurt to tenderize the chicken and the spices to infuse deeply. For best results, marinate for up to 24 hours. This step is where patience pays off beautifully.

Step 3: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature

Before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

You have multiple delicious options here:

Pan Fry: Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes—avoid flipping too soon to prevent sticking. Once the internal temperature hits 160°F, remove from heat, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes to finish cooking through.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray and arrange the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 7 minutes on one side, flip, then cook an additional 7 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety and perfect doneness.
Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken on it. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until internal temperature is 165°F, ensuring juicy, well-cooked chicken.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, sprinkle a little extra salt over the chicken, slice it if desired, and get ready to enjoy that tender, flavorful bite you’ve been craving.

How to Serve Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish holds five pieces of raw meat, each coated in a thick, creamy sauce. The sauce is light beige with green herb specks scattered throughout, covering the meat evenly and pooling slightly around the edges. The meat pieces have visible texture lines, and the overall dish sits on a white marbled surface. In the corner, part of a round white container with a lid is visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes enhance both the look and flavor of this dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges brighten the plate and complement the citrusy marinade perfectly. For an extra pop of texture and color, consider toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Side Dishes

This Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy rice pilaf, a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. For a cozy meal, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter quinoa are fantastic partners that soak up every delicious drop.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Serve the chicken sliced atop warm flatbreads with a smear of tangy tzatziki or wrapped in a pita with cucumber, tomatoes, and pickled onions. You could even layer it into a hearty grain bowl with avocado and roasted chickpeas for a complete, vibrant meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover yogurt-marinated chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it whole or sliced to use in salads, sandwiches, or wraps the next day.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cooked chicken is best used within 2 months to maintain optimum flavor and texture. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave to avoid drying out the tender chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep it moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets for this Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and can result in even juicier, more flavorful meat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

For tender, flavorful chicken, marinate for at least one hour. If you have the time, letting it rest overnight or up to 24 hours intensifies the flavors and improves tenderness thanks to the yogurt’s enzymes.

Is full fat Greek yogurt necessary for the marinade?

Full fat works best because of its creaminess, which creates a luxurious marinade that tenderizes and flavors the chicken. Low-fat options won’t do quite the same job and can lead to a less tender result.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While yogurt is the key tenderizing ingredient, you can try a non-dairy yogurt made from coconut or almond milk. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but it can still yield a delicious result.

What’s the best cooking method for the most tender chicken?

Pan frying and air frying both retain moisture beautifully while giving a nice crust. Baking is convenient and foolproof but can sometimes produce a slightly drier texture if not closely monitored.

Final Thoughts

This Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe is a game-changer when you want a meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly. From the creamy marinade to the aromatic spices and perfect cooking methods, it’s a winning combination every time. I honestly can’t recommend it enough—give it a try soon, and watch how quickly it becomes a trusted favorite in your cooking rotation.

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Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need