greek yogurt chicken marinade recipe

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The Best greek yogurt chicken marinade recipe
Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade
🥘Ingredients
👨‍🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade

The Best greek yogurt chicken marinade recipe

I have been making this Greek yogurt chicken marinade for years and it is hands down my favorite way to prepare chicken. The yogurt tenderizes the meat so it comes out incredibly juicy and full of flavor every single time. My kids actually ask for this chicken because it is not dry or boring like some other recipes.

What I love most is how simple it is to throw together. You just mix a few pantry staples with Greek yogurt, let the chicken sit for a bit, and then cook it up. It works perfectly for a busy weeknight dinner but also feels special enough for a weekend barbecue with friends. Plus Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics which makes me feel good about serving it to my family.

Whether I grill it, bake it, or pan sear it, this marinade never lets me down. The chicken stays moist and the tangy yogurt flavor pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and lemon. It is a staple in my kitchen and I think it will become one in yours too.

Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade

4.7 from 918 votes

This Greek yogurt chicken marinade creates the most tender and flavorful chicken you will ever make. The yogurt helps break down the meat while adding a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with lemon and herbs.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time30 mins (plus 2 hours marinating)

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)

Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.

2Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for best results.

3When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.

4Grill the chicken over medium high heat for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Alternatively, bake at 400 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes, or pan sear in a hot skillet with a little oil for 5 to 6 minutes per side.

5Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl

Whisk

Large resealable bag or shallow dish

Grill, baking sheet, or skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 48g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts just adjust cooking time as needed.

Watch Video Of How Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Works

This Greek yogurt chicken marinade is always a good idea because it is simple, healthy, and makes the chicken taste amazing. It works for quick dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd at a family gathering. I promise once you try it, you will keep coming back to this recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade

1. Can I marinate the chicken for too long?

Yes, if you marinate the chicken for more than 12 hours, the yogurt can start to break down the meat too much, making it mushy. Stick to 2 to 8 hours for the best texture.

2. Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Absolutely. This marinade works great with pork chops, lamb, or even firm fish like salmon. Just adjust the marinating time to about 1 to 2 hours for fish.

3. Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?

Yes, you can. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

4. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can substitute plain regular yogurt, but strain it through a cheesecloth or paper towel for about 30 minutes to thicken it up. Sour cream also works in a pinch.

5. Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this marinade are naturally gluten free. Just be sure to check your spice labels to avoid any cross contamination.

greek yogurt chicken marinade recipe

The Best greek yogurt chicken marinade recipe

Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade