Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

The aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air instantly evokes memories of summer gatherings and joyful meals shared with loved ones. This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe offers a tender and flavorful dish that comes together in about an hour, plus marinating time. The secret lies in the tangy Greek yogurt that not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also keeps it juicy and succulent when grilled.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue. It’s an ideal choice for those who love to meal prep, as the chicken can be marinated ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The Greek yogurt marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
• Fresh dill and lemon zest add a refreshing zing of flavor.
• Quick grilling time means you can enjoy it in under 30 minutes.
• It’s versatile enough to serve with various sides or in wraps.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish.

For the Marinade

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat)
• 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

For the Chicken

• 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs

Use low-fat Greek yogurt for fewer calories.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Low-fat yogurt can replace full-fat.
• Fresh herbs can substitute with dried.
• Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs.
• Substitute shallots with red onion.

How to Make It

Prepare this delicious chicken in just a few simple steps.

1. Pat dry

Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel if needed. Set aside.

2. Combine ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, dill, shallots, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Add the chicken and toss well to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.

3. Heat the grill

Heat the grill to 400°F.

4. Grill the chicken

Place the chicken thighs onto the grill, smooth side down. Discard any leftover marinade in the bowl. Grill the chicken thighs on direct heat for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs, making sure to flip the chicken thighs at the halfway mark. Keep the lid of the grill closed between flipping.

5. Rest before serving

Remove the chicken from the grill and allow to rest for at least five minutes before serving. If possible, cover with foil.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, yogurt marinade doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the chicken marinate overnight for the best flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to maintain consistent heat.
• Serve with a sprinkle of fresh dill for enhanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with a Greek salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Enjoy in a wrap with tzatziki sauce for a savory lunch option.