Yogurt marinated chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! The yogurt helps to make the chicken tender and adds a creamy richness that is hard to resist.
Honestly, I love how easy this dish is. Just marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices, then bake or grill it. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun barbecue!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Skinless, boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find thighs, chicken breasts can work, but they might be less tender. Try drumsticks for a different texture!
Yogurt: Greek yogurt is my favorite for its thickness and tanginess. If you’re dairy-free, you can use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt instead. Just make sure it’s plain, so it doesn’t alter the flavor.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder and ground ginger can substitute, but fresh is always best for that zing!
Spices: The spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric) give great warmth and depth. If you’re missing one, experiment with others like curry powder or even a BBQ spice mix for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Full of Flavor?
The secret to tender chicken lies in marinating! Yogurt breaks down the meat fibers, making it juicy. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. Let the chicken absorb those lovely flavors!
- Mix all marinade ingredients until smooth.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken for even coating.
- Don’t skip the resting time after grilling—this locks in the juices!
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep. You will also need at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken—overnight is best for maximum flavor! Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes. So, overall, plan for some time to let those flavors soak in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed, creating a delicious marinade. This is where most of the flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Make sure each thigh is nicely coated. You can cover the bowl with plastic wrap or put the chicken in a resealable plastic bag. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, let it marinate overnight.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you are ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. This helps to prevent flare-ups on the grill. Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks (reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe).
4. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, making your chicken more tender and juicy!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and enjoy your delicious yogurt marinated chicken thighs!
### FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that bone-in pieces may require a longer cooking time, while breasts might cook faster, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Plain Yogurt?
If you don’t have plain yogurt on hand, you could use sour cream or buttermilk as alternatives. Keep in mind that sour cream might give a slightly richer flavor, while buttermilk will add a bit of tanginess. Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness and creaminess!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 2 hours to up to 24 hours. A longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acidity from the yogurt can begin to break down the chicken, affecting the texture.
How to Store Leftover Yogurt Marinated Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. You can add a splash of water or broth during reheating to keep it moist!
