Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors but also keeps it moist and juicy. You can choose to bake or grill the thighs to a perfectly golden-brown finish, making it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (about 5-6 thighs)
Marinade
- 5.3-ounce container Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or 1 tablespoon for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Extra lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: In a large glass or plastic bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, fresh thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the bone-in chicken thighs to the bowl and thoroughly coat each piece with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more intense flavor and tenderness.
- Bake or grill: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or preheat your grill to medium-high heat if grilling. Grease a baking dish or brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the dish or directly on the grill. If baking, cook for 40 to 50 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 162°F (72°C). If grilling, cook the thighs for 4 to 5 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the internal temperature to rise to 165°F (74°C) and helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist chicken. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately, enjoying the bright and herbaceous flavors.
Notes
- Marinating longer (up to 24 hours) intensifies flavor and tenderness but do not exceed 24 hours to avoid texture breakdown from the yogurt’s acidity.
- Bone-in chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness; boneless can be used but may cook faster.
- Cooking time varies depending on chicken size; always check internal temperature for safety and doneness.
- The recipe works well with either oven baking or grilling, choose based on preference and convenience.
- For a milder lemon flavor, reduce lemon juice to 1 tablespoon.
