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Yogurt Chicken Marinade Recipe

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3.8 from 65 reviews

This Yogurt Chicken Marinade recipe offers a flavorful and tender chicken experience by soaking boneless chicken thighs or breasts in a zesty and aromatic Greek yogurt-based marinade. Infused with lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, and olive oil, the chicken can be either grilled or baked to perfection, providing juicy, savory results with a hint of spice. Ideal for a nutritious family meal, this marinade enhances the natural flavors and ensures moist, delicious chicken every time.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 3 pounds boneless chicken thighs and/or chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 10-11 ounces plain Greek yogurt (2 individual cups)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons lemon juice (2 juicy lemons)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 6-8 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

  • Parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large 9 x 13 inch baking dish, zest the lemons and then juice them. Add the plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, minced garlic, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts into the marinade, turning each piece to coat thoroughly on all sides. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap.
  3. Refrigerate: Place the covered baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  4. Grill the chicken (optional): Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350-400°F. Once heated, place the marinated chicken pieces directly onto the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Bake the chicken (optional): Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
  6. Serve: Garnish the cooked chicken with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Marinating for longer than 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderizes the chicken further.
  • The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if a milder flavor is preferred.
  • Both thighs and breasts can be used; thighs tend to stay juicier during cooking.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/yogurt-chicken-marinade-recipe/