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Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

Greek yogurt is a secret weapon in the kitchen, especially when it comes to marinating chicken. It tenderizes the meat and adds a rich, tangy flavor that makes every bite juicy and delicious.

This recipe for Greek yogurt marinated chicken thighs is packed with bold flavors like lemon, garlic, herbs, and spices, ensuring a crispy and golden brown finish when grilled, roasted, or air-fried.

If you're looking for a chicken recipe that’s both easy to follow and incredibly flavorful, you’ve come to the right place!

Why Marinate Chicken with Greek Yogurt?

Using Greek yogurt as a marinade isn’t just about flavor—it’s also a science! The lactic acid and calcium in yogurt help tenderize the chicken, breaking down the proteins to create juicy and tender meat.

Unlike acidic marinades, which can sometimes make the meat tough, Greek yogurt makes the chicken tender and flavorful.

Additionally, yogurt helps coat the chicken in the marinade, locking in moisture for a crispy, golden brown crust when cooked.

If you want delicious chicken that’s both moist and packed with flavor, marinating with yogurt is the way to go!

Ingredients for the Best Greek Yogurt Marinade

To create this flavorful Greek yogurt chicken marinade, you’ll need:

• Plain Greek yogurt – The base of the marinade that makes the chicken extra juicy.
• Lemon juice – Adds brightness and works with the yogurt to tenderize the chicken.
• Garlic – Infuses the chicken thighs with delicious garlicky goodness.
• Olive oil – Helps create a crispy texture when cooking.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Spices and herbs – Oregano and paprika for added depth.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade

1. Mix together the yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings in a large bowl.
2. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are coated in the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate with yogurt for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours (or overnight for the best results).

This Greek yogurt chicken marinade works well with both boneless skinless chicken thighs and bone-in skin chicken. (Though you'll have to adjust the baking time if using boneless skinless chicken thighs.)

How Long to Marinate Chicken in Yogurt?

For tender and flavorful chicken, let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes. However, yogurt also helps keep the chicken moist for up to 24 hours, so marinating overnight will give the best flavor.

Remember, the time will depend on the size and cut of chicken—thicker pieces need longer marinating time.

How to Cook Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

After the chicken is fully marinated, it's time to cook the chicken! You can grill, roast, or even use an air fryer for different textures and flavors.

Oven Roasted Greek Yogurt Chicken Thighs

For perfectly roasted chicken:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer—it should reach 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Grilling Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

If you prefer grilled chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Move the chicken to the grill, shaking off any leftover marinade.
3. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Greek Yogurt Chicken

For a crispy and quick option:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Place the chicken in a single layer.
3. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.
4. Check to be sure the internal temperature is at least 165°F.

What to Serve with Greek Chicken Thighs

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Summer Cucumber Tomato Salad – A classic tomato, cucumber, and mozzarella salad.
• Classic Wedge Salad – A fresh and crunchy side.
• Easy Greek Salad - filled with fresh flavors and a tangy dressing.
• Rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Tips for the Best Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade

• Use plain Greek yogurt instead of regular plain yogurt for a thicker consistency.
• Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor.
• Preheat your oven, grill, or air fryer to get a crispy and golden brown crust.
• Don’t forget to check the internal temperature to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken recipe is a new fav recipe for those who love tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken.

No matter if you roast, grill, or use an air fryer, the yogurt marinade ensures a crispy, golden brown texture and delicious taste.

Try this recipe today, and let the chicken speak for itself! I’m so glad you found this recipe—leave a rating in the recipe card below and share your thoughts!

Key Takeaways:

✅ Greek yogurt makes chicken juicy and tender.
✅ The lactic acid and calcium in yogurt tenderize the chicken.
✅ Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
✅ Cook in the oven, grill, or air fryer for different textures.
✅ Serve with Greek salad, cucumber salad, or roasted vegetables.

Would you like more Greek recipes?

Greek Gyro Salad

Greek Chicken Casserole

Grilled Greek Chicken with Tzatziki

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs recipe is incredibly flavorful, juicy, and easy to make! The Greek yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with delicious herbs and spices. Perfect for a simple, healthy dinner!

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Greek

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 Servings

Calories: 448kcal

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Ingredients

• 4 Bone-In Skin-On Chicken Thighs
• 1 Cup Plain Greek Yogurt
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 3 Cloves Garlic Minced
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

• In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Marinate the Chicken

• Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor. (or overnight)

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken

• Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Rest & Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

✅ Marinate for longer to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

✅ Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

✅ For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

This is a Trim Healthy Mama S Fuel recipe.

 

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Nutrition

Serving: 1Thigh | Calories: 448kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 34g

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