This simple recipe for Juicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken packs a punch with aromatic spices and tangy Greek yogurt, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. Fire up the grill and let this juicy chicken be the star of your dinner routine!

grilled chicken on a plate with lemon slices

While there are many ways to make chicken breast, a blend of creamy Greek yogurt and aromatic spices coming together is one of my favorite ways. Yogurt, with its mild acidity and thick consistency, serves a dual purpose. It not only infuses the chicken with rich, tangy flavors but also acts as a natural tenderizer. The result? Chicken that’s both tender, packed with flavor, and ready to use in your favorite dishes!

Yogurt chicken packs a punch, but as an experienced home chef, I can tell you it’s super simple to whip up. The process is as easy as mixing, marinating, and grilling. Start by mixing together Greek yogurt, a medley of spices, lemon zest and juice in a large bowl. Once your marinade’s mixed to perfection, let the chicken breast soak up those flavors in the fridge for a couple of hours (or up to 8 if you’re ahead of the game). Over a preheated grill or grill pan, cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, give them a brief rest, then dive into that juicy goodness.

Whether you’re layering it in wraps with crisp greens and a dollop of tzatziki or dicing it up for a vibrant salad, the options are endless. Pair it with herbed spring rice pilaf, toss it into a pasta with peas, or simply enjoy it with some roasted asparagus or Sumac Roasted Sweet Potatoes on the side. No matter how you serve it– this chicken will elevate any meal!

grilled chicken on a plate with lemon slices

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The Greek yogurt acts as a tenderizer, ensuring every piece of chicken is juicy and succulent.
  • The perfect blend of spices elevates the flavors, bringing out the best in the chicken. 
  • Whether grilled outdoors or on a stovetop, this chicken promises consistently results, perfect for any occasion.
  • Yogurt chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways allowing you to change it up each time. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients in bowls like chicken breasts, spices and yogurt
  • Whole Milk Greek Yogurt – Acts as a rich base that tenderizes the chicken while giving a tangy depth to the marinade.
  • Salt & Pepper – These staples bring out the natural taste of the chicken and enhance the flavors present in the marinade.
  • Seasonings (garlic powder, turmeric, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon) – A simple seasoning mix that gives the chicken its vibrant, aromatic, and spicy character.
  • Parsley – Introduces a freshness, breaking through the richness and adding a bright contrast to the marinade.
  • Lemon Juice & Zest – Infuses the chicken with zesty tanginess, providing a citrusy lift that complements the creamy yogurt and spices.
  • Chicken Breast – Becomes the perfect canvas for the yogurt marinade, absorbing all the flavors and grilling up to tender perfection.

How To Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast

yogurt and spices mixed in a bowl
Mix the ingredients in a large bowl for the marinade.  
raw chicken in a bowl with yogurt marinade
Add the chicken breasts and coat the chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 8 hours. 
raw yogurt marinated chicken on a grill
Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side.
grilled yogurt marinated chicken on the grill
Let rest for a few minutes then serve.

Mix up the marinade: To a large bowl, add the yogurt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, turmeric, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined. 

Prepare the chicken breasts: Remove any excess fat from the chicken breast. Pat dry with paper towels on both sides. Add the chicken breasts and coat the chicken in the marinade. 

Marinate the chicken: Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 8 hours. 

Grill the chicken: When ready to cook, preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium/high heat. Spray with cooking oil and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

grilled chicken on a plate with lemon slices

Recipe Tips

  • For even grilling, ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness; you can use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even size.
  • While 2 hours of marinating is good, if time allows, aim for the full 8 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the chicken.
  • If your Greek yogurt is too thick, you can thin it slightly with a splash of milk or water for a smoother marinade.
  • Always let your grill or grill pan preheat adequately; this ensures a nice sear and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill.
  • Use a microplane or fine grater for the lemon zest to ensure it blends seamlessly into the marinade.
  • Feel free to tweak the spices according to personal preference; for a spicier kick, a dash of chili powder or cayenne can make all the difference.
  • After grilling, it’s crucial to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps in retaining the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
  • The safest way to check if your chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when it’s done.
grilled chicken with lemon slices

Serving Suggestions

  • Wraps & Pitas: Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and serve it inside a warm pita or wrap, complemented by fresh veggies and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean touch.
  • Salads: Top a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives with chunks of grilled chicken, and dress with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
  • Rice Bowls: Lay pieces of the juicy chicken atop a bed of fragrant basmati or jasmine rice, accompanied by grilled vegetables and a dollop of yogurt on the side.
  • Pasta Pairing: Dice the chicken and toss it with some cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a light lemon-herb sauce.
  • Tacos: Stuff soft tortillas with sliced chicken, fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta or cotija cheese.
  • Sandwiches: Layer pieces of grilled chicken on crusty bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and a spread of garlic aioli.
  • Stir-Fries: Dice the chicken and toss it into a wok with a mix of colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, seasoned with soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired dish.
  • Skewers:  Before grilling, you can thread pieces of the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onions, to serve as flavorful kebabs perfect for outdoor barbecues or parties.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: After grilling, allow the yogurt-marinated chicken to cool. Place the chicken pieces in an airtight container or wrap them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. 

Freezing: Lay the chicken pieces out individually on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken pieces to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. Properly stored, the chicken can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to consume, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt instead of whole-milk Greek yogurt?  

While whole milk Greek yogurt provides a richer taste and texture, low-fat or non-fat variants will still give you a tenderizing effect and a tangy flavor, just with a slightly lighter taste.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?  

You can cook the marinated chicken in a regular skillet over medium heat or even bake it in an oven at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked, usually for about 25-30 minutes, depending on thickness.

Is it possible to marinate the chicken for longer than 8 hours? 

While marinating for an extended period can deepen flavors, be cautious with yogurt-based marinades as they can overly soften or break down the chicken’s texture. It’s best to stick to the 2 to 8-hour recommendation for optimal results.

Can I use this marinade for other types of meat or poultry?  

This yogurt marinade is versatile and can be used with other meats like lamb or turkey. Adjust marinating times based on the thickness and type of meat for the best results.

Print
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grilled chicken on a plate with lemon slices

Juicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 2 reviews
  • Author: Laney Schwartz
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating: 2 Hours
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grill
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Description

This simple recipe for Juicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken packs a punch with aromatic spices and tangy Greek yogurt, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. Fire up the grill and let this juicy chicken be the star of your dinner routine!


Ingredients

Scale
  • ⅔ cup whole milk greek yogurt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts (I like to use cutlets or pound thin for even cooking)

Instructions

  1. To a large bowl add the yogurt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, turmeric, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, parsley, lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and coat the chicken in the marinade.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 8 hours.
  4. When ready to cook, preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium/high heat. Spray with cooking oil and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side.
  5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.