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Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken

This delicious Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken is simple to prepare, tender, and bursting with flavor, perfect for any meal occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 29 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 5 servings
Calories 320 kcal

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.

Notes

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. This marinade makes it suitable for freezing.
Keyword Easy Grilling, Grilled Chicken, Healthy Dinner, meal prep, Yogurt Marinade