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Homemade Yogurt Marinated Chicken photo

Yogurt Marinated Chicken

This Yogurt Marinated Chicken is bursting with flavor! A creamy marinade tenderizes the chicken, making it perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade:
  • 2/3 cup whole milk Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt and freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro plus more for serving
For the Chicken:
  • 2 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs about 7 thighs or chicken breasts (about 5)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Plastic Wrap or Zip-top Bag
  • Grill or Oven
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the yogurt marinade. For best results, ensure each piece is generously covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag, sealing it tightly. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. If you're grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. If grilling, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  • Bring the chicken to room temperature for even cooking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.