Why Make This Recipe

Yogurt marinated chicken is a tasty and healthy dish. The marinade, made from yogurt and lovely spices, makes the chicken tender and flavorful. It’s perfect for dinner or to impress your friends at a gathering. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time!

How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Ingredients:

1½-2 lbs chicken cutlets (I used 8)
1/2 cup plain full fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
1 tsp lemon zest
5 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped fine)
1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp coriander
1/4 tsp cumin

Directions:

Combine the chicken marinade ingredients in a large bowl and whisk together.
Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to 24 hours.
Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking, about 20 minutes.
For pan frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through.
For air frying: Preheat the air fryer and cook the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
For baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

How to Serve Yogurt Marinated Chicken

You can serve yogurt marinated chicken with rice, salad, or in a wrap. Pair it with some fresh vegetables or a yogurt sauce for extra flavor. It also goes well with pita bread for a tasty meal.

How to Store Yogurt Marinated Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool down before putting it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
Don’t rush the cooking process; make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.

Variation

You can add different spices or herbs to the marinade to change the flavor. Try adding cumin or turmeric for a different twist. You can also use yogurt-based marinades for other meats like fish or lamb.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours.

3. Can I bake the chicken in a marinade?
Yes, you can bake the chicken along with the marinade. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it cooks evenly.