Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? This Greek yogurt chicken recipe will make your taste buds dance with joy! It’s creamy, tangy, and super easy to make.

I love how Greek yogurt gives the chicken such a rich texture. Plus, it’s packed with protein and a boost of probiotics. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight!

If you’re like me, you want something that’s both tasty and good for you. This chicken is so flavorful, you’ll forget it’s a healthier choice. It’s a win-win for the whole family!

Ready to give it a try? Let’s get cooking with this simple Greek yogurt chicken recipe. You won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Juicy Chicken: The Greek yogurt not only adds flavor but helps to lock in moisture, ensuring a tender bite with every piece of chicken.
• Simple and Quick to Prepare: This recipe requires only a few ingredients, making it both simple and fast to prepare.
• Versatile: The chicken can be served in many ways, from salads to wraps to main dishes.
• Healthy and Light: With Greek yogurt as the base, this recipe is not only delicious but also offers a protein-packed option with fewer calories compared to cream-based marinades.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time to save on prep time during the week. You can also cook it in bulk and use leftovers in a variety of meals.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. If you’re making this for a larger group or for meal prep, feel free to double or triple the ingredients.

Difficulty:

This recipe is beginner-friendly and straightforward. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find it simple to make.

Required Kitchen Tools:

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Mixing Bowl: To combine the marinade ingredients.
• Baking Sheet or Skillet: Depending on your cooking method (grilling or stovetop).
• Meat Mallet (Optional): If you want to ensure the chicken cooks evenly, tenderizing it can be a helpful step.
• Tongs or Spoon: To handle the chicken while cooking or flipping it.

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Chicken

The ingredients for this Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe are simple but pack a lot of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs: The bone-in pieces keep the chicken juicy and flavorful. You can also use boneless thighs if you prefer a quicker cooking time.
• Greek Yogurt: This is the base of the marinade, adding richness and helping to tenderize the chicken.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the yogurt and spices.
• Olive Oil: Helps to create a smooth, flavorful marinade while adding moisture to the chicken.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh, herbal notes.
• Fresh Thyme: Offers a subtle, earthy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Garlic Powder: For a savory, aromatic kick.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These seasonings balance out the yogurt and add essential seasoning to the chicken.

Variations for Greek Yogurt Chicken

If you’d like to tweak the flavor of this dish or try something different, here are a few ideas:

• Add Herbs: You can experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, or basil to give the dish a different flavor profile.
• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, switch out the thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Add Heat: For a spicier version, mix in chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Try Yogurt Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you could try plain yogurt or even sour cream as a substitute for a different flavor.
• Add Garlic: For a more intense garlic flavor, use fresh garlic cloves instead of garlic powder.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until fully mixed. The yogurt should be smooth and evenly seasoned. This marinade will help flavor and tenderize the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and full of flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the bone-in chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. If possible, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 8 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it will absorb. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute marination will still give great results.

3. Cook the Chicken

Stovetop Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Allow them to cook without moving for about 5-7 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden.
3. Flip the chicken over, reduce the heat to medium, and cover the skillet. Continue to cook for another 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Grilling Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F).
2. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping only once. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken

This Greek Yogurt Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious ideas:

• With a Side Salad: Serve the chicken with a fresh, vibrant salad, like a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese. The lightness of the salad pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt marinade.
• In Wraps or Pitas: Slice the chicken and wrap it in a warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Pair the chicken with a side of couscous, quinoa, or rice pilaf for a hearty meal. You can even add some roasted veggies for extra flavor.
• In Bowls: Create a delicious bowl by adding the chicken to a base of greens or grains, and top with avocado, feta, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• In Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and make a sandwich or a hearty wrap, adding your favorite veggies and condiments.

Storing Greek Yogurt Chicken

• Marinated Chicken: If you have leftover marinade or want to prepare the chicken ahead of time, store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. You can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, just thaw and cook as usual.
• Cooked Chicken: Once cooked, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat or warm it in the microwave to prevent it from drying out.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Even Cooking: If using bone-in chicken thighs, consider gently pounding them to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden brown color.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If cooking on the stovetop, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it gets crispy and evenly cooked.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees the chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry.
• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

Nutrition Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Greek Yogurt Chicken (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	26g
Total Fat	21g
Saturated Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fiber	0g
Sugars	2g
Sodium	400mg
Cholesterol	120mg

Please note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Greek Yogurt Chicken FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless cuts cook faster than bone-in chicken.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating it for up to 8 hours will yield even more flavor and tenderness.

Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it on the stovetop or grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! You can cook a large batch and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently to maintain its juiciness.

Conclusion

This Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a meal for the week, it’s an easy-to-make option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With the tangy yogurt marinade and the freshness of herbs, this chicken is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that everyone will love!