Description
This Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe features tender and flavorful boneless chicken thighs or breasts marinated in a spiced Greek yogurt blend. The marinade combines garlic, ginger, lemon, and warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon to infuse the chicken with a vibrant, aromatic taste. Grilled to juicy perfection, this dish is perfect for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Yogurt 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
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
Chicken
- 2 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 7 thighs) or chicken breasts (about 5)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro until fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into a gallon-size resealable freezer bag. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, pressing out excess air, then massage the marinade evenly to coat all the pieces thoroughly. Refrigerate and let the chicken rest for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours for breasts, or 24 hours for thighs to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a gas grill to 425°F (220°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly brush them with oil using a balled-up paper towel held with long tongs to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the hot grill. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, turning carefully until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring the chicken is cooked through while keeping it juicy. Optionally, lightly brush the chicken with olive oil halfway through grilling to keep the exterior from drying out.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- If you want to keep the chicken’s exterior moist during grilling, brush it lightly with olive oil halfway through cooking.
- For best results, do not marinate chicken breasts longer than 8 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
- This marinade works well with both chicken thighs and breasts, but thighs yield juicier results.
- Check internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
