Tender & Flavorful Yogurt Marinated Chicken: Your Go-To Grilled Dinner
Experience the ultimate in tender, juicy chicken with this simple yet incredibly flavorful Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe. Chicken breasts are lovingly bathed in a vibrant blend of Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic Greek seasonings, then grilled to absolute perfection. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy dinner solution that will be on repeat all summer long.
Remember last fall when I had the incredible opportunity to visit Ohio with the American Dairy Association Mideast? It was an eye-opening experience that deepened my appreciation for the dairy industry and the dedicated farmers behind it. I’m thrilled to continue my partnership with them this year, bringing you more delicious and dairy-filled recipes that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. During my initial trip, I got to interact with baby calves, witnessed the birth of a calf (a truly unforgettable moment!), and learned so much from local dairy farmer, Frank Burkett.
The Magic of Yogurt Marinade: Unlocking Tender & Flavorful Chicken
Today, I’m putting some of that valuable knowledge to excellent use by sharing this delicious Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe. This dish is ideal for grilling on warm summer evenings, but it’s equally fantastic baked in the oven during the cooler months, making it a versatile meal for any season. June is proudly celebrated as Dairy Month, a perfect time to honor and support America’s hardworking dairy farmers and enjoy the bountiful benefits of dairy products.
The secret to this chicken’s incredible tenderness and depth of flavor lies in the yogurt marinade. Unlike acidic marinades that can sometimes toughen meat, yogurt works differently. Its natural enzymes and lactic acid gently break down the protein fibers in the chicken, resulting in an exceptionally tender and moist texture without compromising its integrity. Greek yogurt, in particular, is a powerhouse for marinades due to its thick, creamy consistency, which adheres beautifully to the chicken, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. It also helps to create a beautiful crust when grilled, sealing in all those delicious juices.
Your Perfect Summer Go-To: Easy Prep, Delicious Results
With summer finally here, your goal is likely to maximize time outdoors, enjoying activities with family and friends, rather than being confined to the kitchen. This is precisely where Yogurt Marinated Chicken shines. It’s the perfect solution for a hassle-free dinner that won’t heat up your house. The beauty of this recipe is its minimal active prep time – you can prepare the marinade and chicken hours before mealtime, then simply throw it on the grill when you’re ready to eat. This means more spontaneous fun and less stress around dinner.
I specifically chose Greek yogurt for this marinade because it’s not just about flavor and texture; it also packs in dairy’s 9 essential nutrients. Its inherent thickness and creaminess are ideal for coating the chicken thoroughly, ensuring it absorbs all the wonderful flavors and emerges incredibly tender. The marinade itself is delightfully simple: combine plain Greek yogurt with plenty of minced garlic, a generous amount of Greek seasoning (or dried oregano for a classic touch), the zest and juice of a fresh lemon, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. This combination creates a bright, savory, and slightly tangy profile that elevates plain chicken breasts from ordinary to extraordinary. Each piece of chicken soaks up these incredible flavors, guaranteeing a dinner that is anything but boring.
The Nutritional Powerhouse: Dairy’s Essential Benefits
Beyond its culinary benefits, dairy plays a crucial role in a balanced diet. Just one serving of milk, cheese, or yogurt provides an impressive 8 grams of high-quality protein and 9 essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and phosphorus. These nutrients are vital for bone health, muscle function, energy, and overall well-being. Experts recommend consuming 3 servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy every day to meet these nutritional needs. This Yogurt Marinated Chicken is an excellent and delicious way to contribute significantly to your daily dairy intake.
When you serve this chicken to your family, you can feel confident that you’re offering a healthy, wholesome meal, even on your busiest nights. It’s lean protein combined with the goodness of dairy, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. For an extra dose of dairy goodness and a truly comforting meal, consider serving it alongside my Cheesy Garlic Bread – a perfect complement to the savory chicken.
Connect with the American Dairy Association Mideast
To learn more about the incredible work of dairy farmers and the benefits of dairy, I encourage you to follow the American Dairy Association Mideast on their social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. You can also meet Ohio and West Virginia dairy farmers, gain insights into how they care for their cows, and trace milk’s journey from the farm to your fridge by visiting Drink-Milk.com. This recipe, along with many other delicious dairy-focused dishes, can also be found directly on their website at Drink-Milk.com/yogurt-marinated-chicken.
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Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
4
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Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt, plain
- 2 Tbls olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tblg Greek seasoning blend, or Oregano
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Chopped Parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, Greek seasoning (or oregano), lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
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Place the chicken breasts into a large zip-top plastic bag. Pour the prepared yogurt mixture over the chicken. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible, and gently massage the chicken to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30-40 minutes. For even more intense flavor and tenderness, you can marinate for up to 4 hours.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Carefully place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer and the chicken is fully cooked through with a beautiful char.
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Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
Instead of grilling, place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
Calories: 229kcal |
Carbohydrates: 2g |
Protein: 29g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 75mg |
Sodium: 154mg |
Sugar: 1g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
Dinner Recipes
American
4
229
yogurt marinated chicken
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Expert Tips for Perfect Yogurt Marinated Chicken
- Choose Full-Fat Greek Yogurt: While low-fat options work, full-fat Greek yogurt yields the most tender and flavorful results. Its creaminess locks in moisture and carries the flavors beautifully.
- Don’t Skimp on Marination Time: While 30-40 minutes is the minimum, allowing the chicken to marinate for 2-4 hours will significantly enhance its tenderness and flavor. Avoid marinating for longer than 8 hours, as the lactic acid can start to break down the chicken too much, leading to a mushy texture.
- Bring Chicken to Room Temperature (Optional but Recommended): For more even cooking, let your chicken sit out of the fridge for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent the outside from burning before the inside is cooked.
- Preheat Your Grill Properly: A hot grill is key for a good sear and to prevent sticking. Ensure your grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the chicken.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
- Let it Rest: After grilling, always allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more tender piece of meat.
Beyond the Grill: Oven-Baked & Pan-Seared Options
While this recipe is a dream for grilling enthusiasts, its versatility means you can enjoy this delicious yogurt marinated chicken year-round, regardless of the weather or access to a grill.
Oven-Baked Perfection:
If grilling isn’t an option, baking offers a wonderful alternative. Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flipping the chicken halfway through ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown exterior. The high heat helps to achieve a lovely sear while keeping the inside incredibly moist.
Quick Pan-Seared Method:
For a super quick weeknight meal, you can also pan-sear the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C). This method gives you a fantastic crust and keeps the chicken wonderfully juicy.
Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
This Greek yogurt marinated chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal.
- Mediterranean Orzo Salad: A light and refreshing pasta salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and a lemon-herb dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of Greek seasoning.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food that perfectly balances the tangy flavors of the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: For a protein-packed and nutritious option, a quinoa salad with fresh herbs and a vinaigrette dressing works wonderfully.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette is always a great choice.
- Warm Pita Bread with Tzatziki: Enhance the Mediterranean feel by serving warm pita bread and a side of homemade tzatziki (cucumber-yogurt sauce).
Whether you’re firing up the grill or utilizing your oven, this Yogurt Marinated Chicken promises a dish that is both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. It’s a testament to how wholesome ingredients, especially nutritious dairy, can transform a meal into something truly special. Enjoy!
**This post is sponsored by American Dairy Mideast. I was compensated for my time to create this recipe. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.