Dive into the delicious world of grilling with this easy and flavorful Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe! Perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend, this dish combines tender chicken with a creamy, tangy yogurt marinade that’s bursting with spices. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat and flavor to fit your taste perfectly.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 29 minutes (including marinating)
Servings: 5
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 460mg
Why Make Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
This Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe is not just tasty; it’s a healthy choice for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced meal. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, keeping it juicy and flavorful while adding a dose of probiotics. Additionally, the marinade is packed with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, making it a wonderful way to elevate your protein intake without compromising on taste. Whether it’s served on a salad, in a wrap, or alongside grilled veggies, this chicken can easily become a staple in your meal prep rotation.
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
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
2 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 7 thighs) or chicken breasts (about 5)
Directions
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, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped cilantro until well combined. Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts in a gallon-size resealable freezer bag. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag while pressing out any excess air and massage the marinade evenly over all pieces of chicken. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate up to 8 hours for chicken breasts or up to 24 hours for thighs. Preheat a gas grill to 425°F (220°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly, then lightly brush them with oil using a balled-up paper towel held with long tongs to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), measured with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken. To prevent the chicken exterior from drying out, you can brush the pieces lightly with olive oil halfway through grilling. Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with additional chopped cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
This flavorful Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken can be served in numerous ways. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad and some warm pita bread for a Mediterranean feast. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. For a more tropical flair, add a side of grilled pineapple or mango salsa to balance the spices.
How to Store Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to save some for later, this marinade also makes it suitable for freezing. Just make sure to thaw it safely in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
- For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling for a more even cook.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- If you’re preparing for a crowd, double the marinade and chicken for a fun outdoor barbecue.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or dill in the marinade for a different twist.
Delicious Variations of Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
Feeling adventurous? Try these tasty variations. For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper or switch it up with some sriracha. For a herby touch, incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the marinade. If you want a citrus burst, replace the lemon juice with lime juice or add orange zest for a sweet contrast. For a vegetarian alternative, marinate tofu or portobello mushrooms using the same yogurt mixture for a delightful grilled dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
What is the best way to ensure my chicken doesn’t dry out on the grill?
Brushing the chicken lightly with olive oil halfway through grilling can help keep it moist.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks with this marinade!
What should the internal temperature of the chicken be when it’s done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Is it necessary to marinate for 24 hours?
While marinating for 24 hours enhances flavor and tenderness, it is not necessary; a minimum of 2 hours will work well.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on trying this Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe! It’s packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and incredibly versatile. With every bite, you’ll savor the deliciousness that makes this dish a must-have for any meal occasion. Enjoy your grilling adventure!
Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Chicken
- 2 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 7 thighs) or chicken breasts (about 5)
Instructions
Preparation
- 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, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts in a gallon-size resealable freezer bag. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken.
- Seal the bag while pressing out any excess air and massage the marinade evenly over all pieces of chicken.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate up to 8 hours for chicken breasts or up to 24 hours for thighs.
Cooking
- Preheat a gas grill to 425°F (220°C).
- Clean the grill grates thoroughly, then lightly brush them with oil using a balled-up paper towel held with long tongs to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), measured with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken.
- To prevent the chicken exterior from drying out, you can brush the pieces lightly with olive oil halfway through grilling.
- Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with additional chopped cilantro before serving.
