Introduction
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the creamy texture of Greek yogurt with a medley of flavorful ingredients, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to keep it moist during cooking.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
30 minutes (or longer for better flavor)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the cooking method)
Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating)
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy this delicious Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken served with your favorite sides or in a hearty wrap, and savor the wonderful flavors it brings to your table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the marinade is smooth and creamy.
Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For enhanced flavor and tenderness, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
Cook the Chicken:
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to ensure even cooking. Choose your preferred cooking method:
– **Stovetop:** Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
– **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
– **Grill:** Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Rest and Serve:
Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices. Serve as desired, perhaps alongside warm pita, over a fresh salad, or in a wrap with tzatziki and vegetables.
Notes
Marination Time:
For best results, consider marinating the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Cooking Temperature:
Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches at least 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions:
This chicken pairs well with Mediterranean sides such as tabbouleh, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Cook Techniques
Preparation of the Marinade
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the Greek yogurt with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the marinade is smooth and creamy.
Marinating the Chicken
Coat the chicken pieces completely with the marinade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate. For optimal flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
Cooking Methods
Choose from one of the following methods to cook the marinated chicken:
– Stovetop: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side.
– Oven: Preheat to 425°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
– Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat and grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side.
Resting the Chicken
Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to help retain its juices.
FAQ
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal for this marinade.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor and tenderness, consider marinating for a few hours or overnight.
What is the recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I use different herbs or spices in the marinade?
Yes, you can customize the marinade with your favorite herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.
What can I serve with the marinated chicken?
It pairs well with warm pita, fresh salads, or in wraps with tzatziki and vegetables.
Conclusion
The Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that brings a burst of flavor with each bite. The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with the zesty brightness of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic and herbs. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it with various sides for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Greek Salad
Pair the marinated chicken with a refreshing Greek salad made of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a zesty side.
Quinoa Tabbouleh
Serve the chicken alongside a quinoa tabbouleh salad with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Hummus and Pita
Enjoy the chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with a generous spread of hummus, fresh vegetables, and your choice of sauces for a quick and tasty wrap.
Roasted Vegetables
Accompany your chicken with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, seasoned with olive oil and herbs for added flavor.
Yogurt Sauce
Drizzle a yogurt-based sauce made with garlic, cucumber, and dill over the cooked chicken for an added layer of creaminess and freshness.
