This creamy yogurt marinated chicken is a tasty dish that’s super easy to make! The yogurt helps keep the chicken juicy and gives it a wonderful flavor.
I love making this for dinner because it’s so simple — just mix the yogurt with spices, coat the chicken, and let it sit. It’s a crowd-pleaser without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best here for their tenderness. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful that they might dry out more easily.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tenderness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can work, though it won’t have the same depth. Adjust spices according to your taste!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Each clove of fresh garlic is about 1/8 tsp of garlic powder, so adjust accordingly.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar (like apple cider) can provide a similar tang, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering.
How Can You Ensure the Perfect Marinade?
The marinade is where the magic happens, and it’s crucial to allow enough time for the chicken to soak in all those flavors. Start by mixing your yogurt with the spices and other ingredients until smooth.
- Ensure each chicken piece is coated evenly — you can even use your hands to massage the marinade into the meat.
- Cover and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, but letting it sit overnight will give you the best results.
When grilling, let excess marinade drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill. Keep an eye on the chicken; overcooking can dry it out, so use a meat thermometer to check. Reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures it’s safe and juicy! Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Creamy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and marinate, plus at least 2 hours (or overnight) in the fridge for the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. Grilling takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on your grill and chicken thickness. So, plan for a total of at least 2 hours and 15 minutes to get your tasty meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, ground coriander, chili powder (if you want a bit of spice), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s a smooth and creamy marinade. Give it a good mix to ensure all the spices are well incorporated!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure each piece gets lots of that tasty yogurt marinade. Use your hands to coat them evenly if you’d like! Once all the chicken is well-covered, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better for maximum flavor and tenderness!
3. Prepping to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan or skillet, lightly brush some oil on the surface to prevent sticking and to help get those lovely grill marks!
4. Grilling the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off to avoid flare-ups. Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for that beautiful char and grill marks, plus an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Don’t rush this part — good things take time!
5. Serving the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor, and add some lemon wedges around the plate for squeezing a little extra zest on top!
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve warm with your favorite side — think fluffy rice, fresh salad, or even some warm naan bread. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy the delicious, juicy goodness of your creamy yogurt marinated chicken!
FAQ for Creamy Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so monitor the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just be cautious, as marinating for too long can change the texture of the chicken.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or a stovetop skillet. Just make sure to preheat it and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Cook over medium-high heat for the same amount of time.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches as well!
