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Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Marinade Recipe

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3.8 from 11 reviews

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade recipe features tender chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and kosher salt. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken while the lemon adds a fresh, tangy brightness. Perfect for grilling or baking, this easy marinade delivers juicy, delicious chicken every time, ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

  • ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a zip-top bag or shallow baking dish, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and kosher salt. Stir to mix thoroughly.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours, to allow flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
  3. Discard Excess Marinade: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Lightly scrape off any excess marinade clinging to the chicken to prevent flare-ups when cooking.
  4. Grill Preparation: Preheat and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill over medium heat.
  5. Grill Chicken: Cook the chicken, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Grill thighs until they reach 185°F to 190°F internal temperature, or breasts until they reach 165°F.
  6. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and tent with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
  7. Slice and Serve: Slice the rested chicken against the grain and serve as desired for a juicy and flavorful meal.
  8. Baking Option Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a sheet tray with foil. Lightly grease the foil with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  9. Bake Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts on the prepared tray, spacing them apart so they don’t touch. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and moist.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for flavor, but up to 8 hours for maximum tenderness.
  • Remove excess marinade before cooking to avoid burning or flare-ups on the grill.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check doneness and avoid overcooking.
  • You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on preference; thighs are juicier while breasts are leaner.
  • Resting chicken after cooking is key to juicy results.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/greek-yogurt-lemon-chicken-marinade-recipe/