Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the mouthwatering flavors of Yogurt Marinated Greek Chicken Thighs! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with a creamy yogurt marinade, perfectly balanced with garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe promises to impress. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be savoring the Mediterranean in no time. Dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of plain yogurt, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Take the 4 chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each thigh is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. This allows the yogurt to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- If grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices within the chicken.
- Serve the yogurt marinated Greek chicken thighs with your choice of sides, such as a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This will enhance the flavors and ensure the chicken is incredibly tender.
- Use Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs: The bone and skin help to keep the chicken moist during cooking, adding extra flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Whether you’re baking or grilling, make sure to preheat your oven or grill. A hot surface will help achieve that perfect crispy skin.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it's safely cooked while remaining juicy and tender.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent and flavorful.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Complement your chicken with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
