Irresistible Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a culinary delight that transforms ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken bursting with flavors, fragrant garlic, and a hint of zesty lemon dancing on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas and recipes recipe.

This dish evokes memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and the aroma of marinated chicken wafted through the kitchen like a warm hug. Perfect for barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience in ways you never imagined.

Sharing this dish at my last family gathering brought everyone together around the table, as they eagerly anticipated their first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.

• Plain Yogurt: Use whole-milk yogurt for creaminess; it helps in making the chicken tender and flavorful.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled varieties for best taste.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use about 4-5 cloves for a strong aromatic punch.

• Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness; it complements the yogurt beautifully.

• Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil keeps things moist during cooking.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

• Fresh Herbs (like Cilantro or Parsley): These add a fresh finish and pop of color to your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Create the Marinade: In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Add Chicken to Marinade: Place your chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is coated generously.

Marinate Time!: Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken.

Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, aim for medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.

Cook Your Chicken!: Grill each breast for 6-7 minutes per side or bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Look for golden-brown edges!

Serve It Up!: Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs for a delightful presentation that will wow your guests.

Cooking should be an enjoyable experience! As you whip up this yogurt marinated chicken dish, take time to savor each step—feel free to hum along to your favorite tunes while you cook! With every sizzle from the grill or oven roar of heat as you open that door will build excitement in every bite that follows! Enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this explore main dish recipes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in a hot pan to lock in juices, then finish cooking in the oven for perfectly tender results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid drying out.

Cooking this yogurt marinated chicken brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter filled the air alongside mouthwatering aromas.

FAQ

What type of yogurt is best for marinating chicken?

Use plain Greek yogurt for its thick consistency and tangy flavor that tenderizes meat beautifully.

Can I use different meats with this marinade?

Absolutely! This yogurt marinade works wonderfully with lamb, beef, or even fish.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least one hour, but overnight gives the best flavor and tenderness.

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Yogurt Marinated Chicken

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a flavorful dish that elevates any meal with its tender, juicy texture and aromatic blend of spices. The yogurt-based marinade infuses the chicken with tangy goodness, enhanced by garlic and lemon zest, creating a delightful dining experience. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this versatile recipe can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it, ensuring thorough coating.
3. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F) or oven to 400°F.
5. Grill each breast for 6-7 minutes per side or bake for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Let rest before slicing and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Feel free to substitute herbs or add vegetables like bell peppers for a colorful twist.