Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and healthy way to prepare tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs. Marinated in a zesty blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, this dish can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared to perfection. It’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal served alongside rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Marinade
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the bowl and toss until each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Preheat your oven to 400°F if baking, or heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat if you prefer grilling or pan-searing.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
– To bake: Place the chicken on a lightly greased baking sheet or in a baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
– To grill or pan-sear: Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked through. - Rest and Serve: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve with your choice of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs will yield a juicier result compared to breasts.
- Greek yogurt not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken naturally.
- Leftover chicken is excellent for making wraps, salads, or grain bowls.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Marinating longer enhances flavor and tenderness but avoid exceeding 8 hours to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
