These yogurt marinated chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat, making every bite super tasty and tender. Yum!
I love how easy this recipe is. Just marinate the chicken, toss it on the grill or in the oven, and you’re ready for a delicious meal. Perfect for family dinners or a fun barbecue!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may require less marinating time and can dry out faster.
Yogurt: Either Greek or regular yogurt works great. Greek yogurt gives a thicker marinade and can add a creamier texture. If dairy is a concern, try using a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt.
Olive Oil: This adds richness, but feel free to swap it with avocado oil or even melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or mint can be good alternatives. Adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from the Marinade?
The marinade is where the magic happens, so pay close attention! Mix all the marinade ingredients well to ensure the spices and flavors infuse the yogurt. The longer you marinate, the tastier it will be! Aim for at least one hour, but refrigerating overnight yields the best results.
- Combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices in a bowl.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Use a spoon or your hands to mix it well.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate; don’t rush this step!
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and a minimum of 1 hour for marinating. If you can, let the chicken marinate overnight for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill will take an additional 15 minutes. So overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes if you marinate for an hour, or overnight for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything well until you have a smooth and creamy marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure that each piece of chicken is well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for maximizing flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing it on the grill. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and you see nice grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a platter and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Finally, garnish your chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch!
Enjoy your delicious and tender yogurt-marinated chicken thighs!
## FAQs for Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts will work just fine, but they tend to dry out faster than thighs. To prevent this, reduce the cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side and ensure they’re fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Plain Yogurt?
No problem! You can substitute plain yogurt with buttermilk or sour cream for a similar tangy effect. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but your chicken will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. Just remember to keep them refrigerated. Marinating for at least 1 hour is essential, but overnight is best!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy it in salads, wraps, or as a protein-packed snack!
