This yogurt marinated chicken is juicy and full of flavor! The creamy yogurt helps tenderize the chicken while the spices bring all the tasty vibes to the dish.
Marinating it overnight makes it even better, but I’ve been known to sneak a bite before it’s ready—you just can’t resist that smell! 🐔💖
I love serving this chicken with rice or veggies; it’s a simple and satisfying meal that never disappoints. Plus, it’s so easy to make with just a few ingredients!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I usually prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay juicy during cooking. If you can only find chicken breasts, you can use those, but they might dry out a bit more, so watch them closely.
Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives a thicker marinade, which I love. Regular yogurt works well too. If you’re dairy-free, go for coconut yogurt; it won’t be as thick but adds a nice flavor.
Spices: Ground cumin and coriander bring warmth and depth. I like adding smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to skip any spices, consider using a pre-made spice blend like garam masala as a substitute.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional but adds a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can leave it out or use a pinch of black pepper instead for mild warmth.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy and Full of Flavor?
Marinating the chicken is key! The yogurt tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavors. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Use enough marinade to fully coat the chicken. If time allows, marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Before grilling, let the excess marinade drip off. This prevents flare-ups and helps achieve a nice char.
- Cook at medium-high heat, flipping only once for an even cook.
- Finally, resting the chicken after cooking is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute and gives you tender bites.
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (overnight is best!). Cooking the chicken on the grill will take about 12-14 minutes. So, in total, set aside at least 2 hours and 10 minutes, but if you can, marinate overnight for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well blended. This flavorful mixture will help tenderize the chicken and make it taste amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure all the chicken pieces are fully coated with the yummy marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, or transfer everything into a resealable bag. Pop it in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. Overnight marinating is even better for more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, it’s a good idea to oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. After the grill is hot, take the chicken out from the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Be sure to discard the marinade that’s left in the bowl!
4. Cooking on the Grill:
Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Once it’s rested, slice it into pieces if you like and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your delicious yogurt marinated chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs, though they may require slightly less cooking time. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out!
What if I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No problem! You can use regular plain yogurt instead, but keep in mind that it might be a bit thinner in consistency. If you want to thicken it slightly, consider mixing in a tablespoon of sour cream or reducing the lemon juice to balance the liquid content.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours! Just be cautious not to marinate for too long beyond that, as the acidity in the yogurt can start to break down the meat, making it mushy. Aim to keep it within the 2 to 24-hour range for optimal flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or heat gently in a skillet on low to preserve moisture. You can also slice and add it to salads or wraps for a tasty meal!
