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Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe features a rich, tangy yogurt marinade that ensures the chicken is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. It's easy to prepare and versatile, perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt Acts as a marinade base, providing moisture and tanginess.
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Adds brightness and acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Enhances the lemon flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic cloves Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds earthy warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Contributes a warm, nutty flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Elevates the umami flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of heat.
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro or parsley Provides fresh herbal notes.
Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts Main protein in the dish.

Method
 

Preparation of Marinade
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro.
Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. Place them in a gallon-size resealable bag and pour yogurt marinade over the chicken.
Seal and Coat
  1. Seal the bag carefully while pressing out any excess air.
  2. Rub the chicken breasts with the yogurt marinade to coat them well.
  3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 45 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Methods
  1. Outdoor Grill: Preheat grill to 425°F (medium-high heat). Clean and lightly grease the grill grates.
  2. Grill the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through.
  3. Indoor Grill Pan: Preheat a grill pan on the stovetop, lightly grease it, and add chicken. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side.
  4. Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 370°F. Air fry for 7 – 9 minutes per side until cooked through.
Resting
  1. Transfer the chicken to a plate or cutting board and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for 24 hours. Adjust spices to your palate for personalized flavor. Rest the chicken post-cooking for at least 5 minutes to retain juiciness. Substituting chicken breasts for thighs is an option for a richer flavor.