Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs are juicy and full of flavor! The creamy yogurt tenderizes the meat, making every bite super tasty. It’s a simple way to elevate your dinner!
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Just mix yogurt and spices, let the chicken sit, and grill or bake. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing friends! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Plain Yogurt: This is the star of the dish! It tenderizes the chicken and adds tanginess. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut yogurt for a similar consistency and flavor.
Chicken Thighs: Skinless, boneless thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re in a pinch, chicken breasts work as a substitute, but they may not be as tender. Drumsticks are another tasty option!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor, but you can use any neutral oil like vegetable or avocado oil if you want less intensity.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika are essential for creating that complex flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works well too, but the smokiness will be missing. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to control heat!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions can be a great substitute to add freshness.
How Do I Get a Good Marinade on the Chicken?
Getting a good marinade on your chicken is essential for flavor. Here’s how to make it effective:
- Combine the yogurt and spices thoroughly. Mix until you have a smooth marinade.
- Make sure each chicken thigh is coated from every angle. The yogurt should cover them completely.
- For best results, marinate overnight. But if short on time, even a couple of hours will still infuse good flavor.
When ready to grill, let excess marinade drip off. This prevents flare-ups and ensures those beautiful grill marks!
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time to make the marinade and coat the chicken. You’ll need at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken in the fridge, but overnight works best for maximum flavor. Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes, making the total time around 2 hours and 30 minutes (including marinating time).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure each piece is completely coated. This is where all the delicious flavors come in! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the chicken and marinade into a resealable plastic bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you can plan ahead.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grill grates with a bit of oil to help prevent sticking. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and throw away the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks. You can check their doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Before serving, garnish with some fresh cilantro and add lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious yogurt-marinated chicken thighs!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Plain Yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitution because it’s thicker and creamier, which will give your chicken even more flavor and tenderness. Just make sure it’s plain Greek yogurt to maintain the intended taste.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate chicken thighs for up to 24 hours. However, marinating for too long may cause the meat to become overly tender and start to break down. If you’re planning to marinate longer, keep an eye on the timing!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What Should I Serve With Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with pita bread and a yogurt sauce for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal!
