Why Make This Recipe
Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that combines juicy chicken with a flavorful marinade made from yogurt and spices. This recipe not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends. Plus, the yogurt keeps the chicken moist, ensuring every bite is succulent and satisfying.
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients:
- 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
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.
- Cook using your preferred method:
- Pan fry: Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
How to Serve Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Yogurt Marinated Chicken is versatile and can be served in many ways. You can slice it and serve it over a fresh salad, tuck it into pita bread with veggies and sauce, or pair it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Store Yogurt Marinated Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before cooking.
Tips to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Experiment with different spices to suit your taste, such as adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using different proteins like turkey or pork. Additionally, try adding vegetables to the marinade for a more robust flavor or serve it with a yogurt sauce on the side for extra creaminess.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of full-fat Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat yogurt, but it may not be as creamy and flavorful as full-fat.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Marinating for at least one hour is recommended, but for the best flavor, try marinating overnight.
Q: Can I cook this chicken on the grill?
A: Absolutely! Grilling the marinated chicken adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just ensure your grill is heated properly before cooking.
Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1.5-2 lbs chicken cutlets (I used 8)
- 1/2 cup plain full fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 unit lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 5 cloves garlic (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
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Cooking
- Cook using your preferred method: Pan fry, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Air fry, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.