Name: Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1½-2 lbs chicken cutlets; 1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup); 1 tsp lemon zest; 5 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped fine); 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp coriander; 1/4 tsp cumin

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Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will please anyone at the dinner table. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The marinade combines simple ingredients like lemon, garlic, and spices to create a delightful taste. You can cook it in different ways, such as pan-frying, air-frying, or baking. This recipe is perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion. Serve it with rice, salad, or veggies for a complete meal. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners and tasty enough for seasoned cooks. Enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish that is both healthy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Yogurt Marinated Chicken

This yogurt marinated chicken is not only tasty, but it is also versatile. The marinade works well with various flavors, making it easy to adjust to your preference. The chicken cooks up to be tender and packed with flavor. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation. It fits well into a busy lifestyle since the chicken can marinate ahead of time. You can happily serve this dish for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep for the week. You will love how quickly it comes together and how much everyone enjoys their meal.

How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½-2 lbs chicken cutlets (I used 8)
1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
1 tsp lemon zest
5 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped fine)
1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp coriander
1/4 tsp cumin

Step-by-Step Directions

Combine the chicken marinade ingredients in a large bowl and whisk together. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to 24 hours. Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking, about 20 minutes.

Pan fry: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through.

Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

How to Serve Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Serve your yogurt marinated chicken with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also add your favorite sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. This chicken goes well in wraps or sandwiches too, making it a versatile meal option.

How to Store Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Store any leftover yogurt marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop to enjoy it again.

Tips for the Best Yogurt Marinated Chicken

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least four hours. If possible, let it sit overnight. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Experiment with different spices to personalize the flavor to your liking.

Recipe Variations

You can change up the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños. You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use any type of yogurt for the marinade?
A: Full-fat Greek yogurt works best for this recipe, but you can use regular yogurt too. Just make sure it is thick enough to coat the chicken.

Q: How can I tell when the chicken is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it is in a sealed bag or container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.