Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

If you’re searching for chicken that’s impossibly juicy, packed with flavor, and simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is about to become your new signature dish. The tang of Greek yogurt, fresh dill, bright lemon, and bold garlic wrap each thigh in a velvety marinade that locks in moisture and brings every bite to life. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard gathering or simply craving something fresh and comforting, this recipe is as reliable as it is delicious. You’ll want this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken front-and-center in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing fussy or complicated here, just a handful of vibrant ingredients that form the heart of Greek cooking. Each ingredient pulls its weight in delivering unforgettable taste, keeping everything moist, aromatic, and utterly eye-catching.

• Chicken Thighs: Tender, juicy, and forgiving on the grill, boneless skinless thighs are the gold standard for this recipe.
• Greek Yogurt: Unsweetened, full-fat yogurt gives the marinade its creamy tang and ensures the chicken comes off the grill extra moist.
• Fresh Dill: Snip in the leaves for a fresh herbal lift that gives this dish unmistakable Mediterranean character.
• Shallot: Finely minced shallot melts into the marinade, adding subtle allium sweetness without overpowering.
• Garlic: Add a generous hand for that key punchy flavor – freshly minced is a must.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Double down on brightness with the juice for acidity and zest for aromatic oils, making every bite burst with flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Just the right balance of these two classics supports and enhances all the bracing flavors in this dish.
• Paprika: Adds gorgeous color and mild smokiness to round out each bite.
• Dried Oregano: A quintessential Greek herb that infuses the marinade with depth and herbal warmth.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. It sounds simple, but removing surface moisture lets the marinade cling better and helps you get those lovely grill marks later. Set the chicken aside for now while you assemble your marinade magic.

Step 2: Mix Up the Marinade

In a big mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced shallot, garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. This is where the aromas really get going! Toss in the chicken thighs and coat every nook and cranny. Take your time making sure they’re thoroughly covered so they soak up as much flavor as possible.

Step 3: Marinate and Chill

Cover the bowl tightly and pop it in the fridge for at least one hour. If you can swing it, marinating overnight turns these into flavor-bombs. Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is all about patience here – the longer the wait, the more flavorful and tender the results.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to a blistering 400F. This helps sear the chicken fast, locking in juices while forming those crave-worthy grill marks. When it’s ready, place each thigh on the grill, smooth side down. Don’t be afraid of a little sizzle – that’s all part of building flavor!

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Grill your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Close the lid between flips to keep the heat even. Once the chicken is charred and juicy, pull it off the grill, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest at least five minutes before serving. That little rest is what keeps all the moisture right where you want it.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill, a shower of lemon zest, or a scattering of thinly sliced green onions all send this chicken over the top. Drizzle with a touch of good olive oil or add a scatter of crumbled feta. Those last-minute finishes invite everyone in for a fresh, vibrant plate.

Side Dishes

Pair your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken with fluffy herbed rice, warm pita, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. Roasted potatoes with lemon and oregano are a nod to the dish’s Greek roots and soak up any extra juices. A simple, crisp salad dressed in olive oil, lemon, and salt is always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken on the bias and tuck it into a pita wrap with tzatziki and lettuce for lunch, or present it whole atop a platter surrounded by grilled veggies for a shareable feel. For an unexpected twist, serve over a grain bowl with quinoa, olives, and a dollop of extra yogurt.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store any extra Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s just as juicy cold as it is hot, which also makes it ideal for meal prep or packing into salads and wraps later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, grill the chicken first, then let it cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing. In the freezer, it will keep its flavor for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken gently in a covered skillet on low heat or in a 300F oven, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it extra moist. Microwaving works too, but use the low power setting and cover the chicken so it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep a close eye on grill time since breasts can dry out faster. Butterfly or pound them to even thickness for best results!

What’s the shortest time I can marinate the chicken?

One hour is your minimum for good flavor, but even 30 minutes will help if you’re in a rush. For maximum tenderness and richness, try marinating your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken overnight.

Can I bake instead of grill the chicken?

Of course! Arrange the marinated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a hot 425F oven for about 25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden. Finish under the broiler for a little char, if you like.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy free?

You can make a dairy-free version by swapping in a thick coconut-based or non-dairy yogurt. The taste will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a tangy, tender result.

Can I make Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken ahead for a party?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, then grill just before serving. Sliced and served on a big platter with lemon wedges, it’s always a party favorite.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, it might just become your most-requested recipe. It’s simple, vibrant, and feels like a little taste of the Mediterranean on your dinner table. Give it a go the next time you want to shake up your chicken routine – friends and family will be lining up for seconds!

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