Juicy, tender, and packed with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavor, this Greek Yogurt Chicken is marinated in a creamy blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon, and warm spices. The yogurt works as a natural tenderizer, resulting in perfectly moist chicken that’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers incredibly tender chicken thanks to the Greek yogurt marinade.
The balance of lemon, vinegar, garlic, and spices creates a vibrant and savory flavor.
It’s oven-baked, making it simple and reliable with no complicated steps.
Perfect for meal prep and versatile enough for salads, wraps, bowls, or plates.
The marinade can be prepared in advance to save time.
It’s naturally gluten-free and fits well into low-carb lifestyles.
Broiling at the end adds beautiful color and a lightly charred finish.
No pounding or special equipment is required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Juice of 1 medium lemon
2 small shallots, roughly chopped
10 to 12 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Directions

Add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, shallots, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, turmeric, dill, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to a food processor.

Pulse until the marinade is completely smooth and well combined.

Place the chicken thighs into a large zip-top bag or a deep bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken.

Seal the bag or cover the bowl and massage the marinade into the chicken until evenly coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours and up to 12 hours.

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Remove the chicken from the marinade, gently shaking off excess, and arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Switch the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, just until lightly charred on top.

Remove from the oven and rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 to 12 hours
Cook time: 30 to 33 minutes
Total active time: about 45 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, adjusting cook time as needed.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the marinade for a brighter flavor.
Use red wine vinegar or white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for a smoky outdoor version.
Add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a subtle sweet balance.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

The chicken can also be enjoyed cold, sliced over salads or tucked into wraps.

FAQs

Does Greek yogurt really tenderize chicken?

Yes, the natural acidity in Greek yogurt helps break down the protein fibers, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, but it’s best not to exceed 12 hours, as the texture can become too soft.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is recommended because it is thicker and clings better to the chicken, but strained regular yogurt can work.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to 170°F.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat from the cayenne pepper, which can be reduced or omitted if preferred.

Can I freeze Greek yogurt marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken directly in the marinade for up to 2 months before cooking.

What sides go well with this dish?

Rice, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or flatbreads pair very well with this chicken.

Can I cook this on the grill instead of the oven?

Yes, grill over medium-high heat for about 6 to 8 minutes per side until fully cooked.

Why should I broil the chicken at the end?

Broiling adds color and a slightly charred flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Conclusion

Greek Yogurt Chicken is a simple yet flavorful recipe that delivers tender, juicy results every time. With a rich marinade, easy preparation, and versatile serving options, it’s a dependable dish you’ll want to make again and again for both busy weeknights and meal prep days.

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