These yogurt marinated chicken thighs are super juicy and full of flavor. The yogurt tenderizes the meat, making it a tasty and moist meal that everyone will love!
Plus, it’s really easy to make! Just mix yogurt and some spices, coat the chicken, and let it chill for a while. I love grilling them for that smoky twist—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yogurt: Greek yogurt is the star here. It not only adds creaminess but also helps tenderize the chicken. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt works too. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut yogurt or a non-dairy alternative.
Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can swap them out for boneless chicken breasts, but watch the cooking time, as they can dry out more easily.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger bring a lot of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger, but fresh is always best for that bright taste.
Spices: Cumin and paprika give depth to the marinade. If you want a twist, you can substitute smoked paprika for regular or try adding coriander instead of cumin for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Grill Chicken Thighs Perfectly?
Grilling chicken thighs can seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward! The key is to get that nice char while keeping the meat juicy.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps create grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Before grilling, let the excess marinade drip off the chicken. This helps it sear well.
- Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until you see those beautiful grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken juicy.
Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken. After that, the chicken should marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. So, it’s best to allow a little extra time if marinating overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This flavorful marinade will make the chicken super tender and delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the chicken thighs to your marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated with that yummy mixture. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Aim to let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can, leave it overnight for even more flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, just heat it over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with some oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting the extra marinade drip off. Place them on the grill (or grill pan) and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them nicely browned with those tasty grill marks. To be sure they’re fully cooked, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Yogurt for the Marinade?
Yes, you can use other types of yogurt, but for the best flavor and texture, Greek yogurt is recommended due to its thickness. If you use regular yogurt, you might want to reduce the amount slightly to prevent the marinade from becoming too runny.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
It’s best to marinate the chicken for no more than 24 hours. Marinating longer can change the texture of the chicken, making it too soft. If you need to prep it in advance, try to stick to the recommended 2 hours to 1 day for optimal results.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinated Chicken?
If you have leftover marinated chicken, it’s important to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use it within 1-2 days, and cook it thoroughly before consuming. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the marinated chicken; it can be frozen for up to 3 months!
What Can I Serve with Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, rice, or couscous to balance the flavors. You can also add grilled vegetables or flatbreads for a complete meal.
