This Greek Yogurt Chicken is a simple yet flavorful way to cook chicken thighs! The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor, while the herbs and spices create a delicious aroma. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe
- Tender and Flavorful: The yogurt marinade helps to tenderize the chicken while adding a delicious tangy flavor.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a breeze to put together.
- Versatile: Bake it in the oven or grill it outdoors for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients
- Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy than boneless, skinless thighs.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors with acidity.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
- Parsley and Thyme: Fresh herbs add a fragrant and flavorful touch.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat them in the marinade. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs in a greased baking pan and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, grill the chicken on a preheated grill until cooked through.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Rest the cooked chicken for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Tips for Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe
- Marinate in Glass or Plastic: Avoid marinating the chicken in a metal bowl, as the acid from the lemon juice can react with the metal.
- Don’t Marinate Too Long: While marinating overnight is great, avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the chicken can start to break down.
- Grease the Pan: Greasing the baking pan or grill prevents the chicken from sticking.
- Use a Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken
- As a Main Course: Serve this Greek Yogurt Chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple salad.
- With a Mediterranean Twist: Pair with hummus, pita bread, and a Greek salad for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- For a Casual Gathering: This chicken is perfect for a casual get-together or potluck.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but bone-in thighs are recommended for more flavor and juiciness.
2. Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Greek yogurt is recommended for its thick texture and tangy flavor, but you can use plain yogurt as a substitute.
3. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Try adding different herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice to the marinade.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Greek Yogurt Chicken. I hope you enjoy it!
PrintGreek Yogurt Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: main dishes
- Method: baking or grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a creamy yogurt mixture with lemon, herbs, and spices, then baked or grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (about 5-6 thighs)
- 5.3-ounce container Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or half for a milder flavor) + extra lemon wedges for garnish
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley + extra for garnish
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: In a large bowl (glass or plastic), whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
- Bake or grill: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or grill to medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs in a greased baking dish or on a greased grill. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 162°F/72°C).
- Rest and serve: Rest for 5 minutes to allow the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C). Garnish with extra lemon wedges and parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in a glass or plastic bowl to avoid any reaction with the lemon juice.
- Do not marinate chicken for longer than 24 hours.
- Grease the baking dish or grill to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 380kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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