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Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken

A delicious and straightforward grilled chicken recipe marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 29 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 346

Ingredients
  

Marinade 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
Chicken
  • 2 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts (about 7 thighs or 5 breasts)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. 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.
  2. Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts in a gallon-size resealable freezer bag.
  3. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken and seal the bag while pressing out any excess air.
  4. Massage the marinade evenly over all pieces of chicken and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours for breasts or 24 hours for thighs.
Cooking
  1. Preheat a gas grill to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly brush them with oil using a balled-up paper towel held with long tongs.
  3. Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Brush the chicken lightly with olive oil halfway through grilling to prevent drying out.
  5. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with additional chopped cilantro.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.