Experience tender, flavorful perfection with Yogurt Marinated Chicken. Infused with rich spices and creamy yogurt, this dish offers a delicious and healthy option for your next meal.
Ever bite into a chicken dish so tender and flavorful that you can’t help but ask for seconds? The secret’s out: Greek yogurt is the star of the show! This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is your new go-to for ensuring every chicken meal from here on out is nothing short of spectacular.
Combining the creamy texture of plain Greek yogurt with the vibrant kick of lemon juice and the aromatic punch of garlic, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Plus, it’s an easy dinner solution that works wonders, whether you’re hosting a party or need a quick meal prep option.
Diving into the world of Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken is like unlocking a secret to amazing flavor with everyday ingredients. This recipe shows the power of a good marinade, transforming plain chicken into a masterpiece of juiciness and flavor.
Whether you’re grilling on an outdoor grill, cooking in a large skillet, or setting it and forgetting it in a slow cooker, this Greek yogurt chicken marinade is your ticket to the best chicken recipe you’ve ever had.
So why wait? Embrace the ease and deliciousness of yogurt-marinated chicken tonight!
Common Questions About Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Why Choose Yogurt for Chicken Marinade?
Greek yogurt’s lactic acid acts as a tenderizer, making the chicken unbelievably soft while the fat in the yogurt makes sure it stays moist. Plus, the tangy yogurt flavor infuses the chicken with a depth of taste that’s hard to beat.
Can I Use Any Cut of Chicken?
Yes! Whether it’s boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option or boneless skinless chicken thighs for more flavor, Greek yogurt chicken marinade works its magic on any cut. Even a whole chicken can be transformed with this versatile marinade.
What’s the Ideal Marinating Time?
You don’t actually have to marinate the chicken here. However, for the most tender chicken, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
If you’re pressed for time, a minimum of a few hours will still yield delicious results, thanks to the effectiveness of the Greek yogurt marinade.
Storage
Marinating this chicken and then slow cooking it is the most amazing process. You’re guaranteed tender chicken every time.
Refrigerator
Keep leftovers in an airtight container; enjoy within 2 days to savor the best flavor and texture.
Freezer
It’s best not to freeze the marinated chicken as the texture may be affected upon thawing.
Tips
I love when meals are easy to make. So it’s a good thing I have a slow cooker! Not only does it do all the work, but it also fills my home with amazing scents!!
- Opt for plain Greek yogurt to ensure the marinade is thick and adheres well to the chicken.
- Enhance the citrusy zing with both lemon juice and lemon zest for a full-flavored experience.
- Achieve perfect grill marks and lock in juices by cooking on medium-high heat if using a grill pan or outdoor grill.
- An instant-read thermometer is crucial to check the internal temperature, ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
- Resting the chicken after cooking allows for redistribution of juices, making each bite juicier.
Ingredients
I always keep a meat thermometer handy for cooking chicken. Although, with a cook time of 6-8 hours, you really don’t have to worry.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Lemon zest
- Kosher salt
- Parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken
The marinade ingredients are the key here. You’ll be really surprised at what the yogurt does to the flavor and texture of this chicken!
- In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, zest, and salt.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Spread half of the yogurt mixture over the chicken, reserving the rest for later. Store the remaining mixture in the fridge while waiting.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the cooker and place it in a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken.
- Toss the shredded chicken with the remaining yogurt marinade to coat.
- Sprinkle with parsley.
- Serve over pita bread, with cucumbers, onions, etc.
Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need
If you’re really feeling adventurous, try doing some of this chicken in the air fryer! Couldn’t hurt, right?
- Slow Cooker or Grill Pan
- Small Bowl for mixing marinade
- Large Bowl for marinating chicken
- Measuring Spoons for precise ingredient addition
- Plastic Wrap to cover the chicken in the refrigerator
What to Serve With Yogurt Marinated Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that complement its Mediterranean vibes. Think Greek salad with fresh herbs, a side of tangy tzatziki sauce, or even some fluffy wild rice to soak up the delicious juices. For a full feast, serve it over warm pita bread with sliced cucumbers and onions.
Why You Should Make Yogurt-Marinated Chicken
This is a recipe that I think everyone should try at least once. Think a little outside the box and see what kind of experiences it brings you.
- Unmatched Tenderness: Thanks to the Greek yogurt marinade.
- Flavor Explosion: Lemon juice and garlic bring vibrant tastes.
- Nutritionally Rich: High in protein and made with healthy fats.
- Incredibly Versatile: From an easy dinner to meal prep mastery.
Variations and Add-Ins for Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Let me know in the comments how your chicken turns out. I always love hearing your stories and I want to make sure it all goes smoothly for you!
- Heat Things Up: A dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for spice lovers.
- Herbal Refresh: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a green twist.
- Citrus Variety: Experiment with lime juice or orange juice for a different citrus note.
- Creamy Boost: A spoonful of sour cream can be added to the marinade for extra creaminess.
If you love this easy slow cooker recipe, you’re going to love these other chicken dinners in the slow cooker too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!
More Great Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes
Chicken and Potatoes in a Slow Cooker
Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole
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Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts about 2 large
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 tsp garlic cloves minced
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt
parsley, to serve – optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, zest, and salt.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Spread half of the yogurt mixture over the chicken, reserving the rest for later. Store the remaining mixture in the fridge while waiting.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the cooker and place it in a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken.
- Toss the shredded chicken with the remaining yogurt marinade to coat.
- Sprinkle with parsley.
- Serve over pita bread, with cucumbers, onions, etc.
Notes
Equipment
- slow cooker
Nutrition
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.
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