These yogurt marinated chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! The yogurt helps make the chicken tender and adds a delicious tangy twist that everyone will love.
Marinating overnight is the secret! I can’t resist snacking on the leftover chicken when it’s all cooked up. Just remember to save some for dinner! 😉
Making this dish is a breeze. I just mix yogurt with spices, coat the chicken, and let it sit. It’s perfect for a simple weeknight meal, plus it tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless thighs are juicy and soak up flavors well. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but they might need less cooking time to prevent dryness.
Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you don’t have it, regular plain yogurt works fine. You can also try non-dairy yogurt for a plant-based option.
Olive Oil: This oil enhances flavor and helps with marinating. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil are good substitutes, offering a milder taste.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika give an earthy depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, or you can substitute with chili powder for a little heat.
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: These add brightness to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, basil or green onions could be a tasty alternative. Don’t skip it, as it enhances the overall flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy, flavorful chicken lies in marinating it properly! Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Coat each chicken thigh well in the marinade for maximum flavor absorption.
- Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This allows the marinade to penetrate the chicken, making it tastier.
Remember to let the chicken rest after grilling. This helps retain its juices, so it’s tender every bite! Enjoy this tasty meal with the lemon wedges, as they add a zesty kick that balances the rich flavors.
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours to marinate. If you can, let it marinate overnight for the best flavor. Once you’re ready to cook, grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, plan for a total of around 2 hours and 30 minutes to get everything ready and enjoy your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth marinade. Don’t be shy; make sure all those delicious spices are mixed well!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them around until they’re completely coated in the marinade. You want every inch of the chicken to soak up that flavor! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag. Put it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium heat instead. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Throw away the leftover marinade—it’s done its job! Place the chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have those lovely grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh touch. Don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side—they’re perfect for squeezing over the chicken. Enjoy your flavorful yogurt marinated chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine in this recipe. Just remember that they might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt instead. Alternatively, a plant-based yogurt can work too, but make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavors balanced. Just check the consistency; you may need to adjust the amount slightly if it’s thinner than Greek yogurt.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Leftover yogurt marinated chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until heated through, which helps maintain moisture.
Can I Grill These on a Skillet Instead?
Yes, using a skillet is a great alternative! Just heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Grill the chicken thighs for the same amount of time as mentioned, flipping them halfway through. Make sure the skillet is hot enough for a nice sear!
