Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish featuring tender chicken coated in a creamy, tangy yogurt marinade infused with garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs. This easy recipe delivers a crispy golden crust while keeping the meat moist and tender on the inside. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal prep with simple ingredients.
- Packed with Flavor – Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon create a deliciously tangy and herby taste.
- Moist and Tender Chicken – The yogurt marinade locks in moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out.
- Healthy and Nutritious – A great source of protein with wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile – Pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, rice, or pita bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Greek yogurt
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken – Add the chicken to the yogurt mixture and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor).
- Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Bake – Place the marinated chicken in the dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Broil for Crispiness – If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a golden-brown finish.
- Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Herb-Infused – Mix in fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary for an earthy touch.
- Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese before baking.
- Different Proteins – Try this recipe with salmon, tofu, or pork chops.
- Crispy Coating – Add a light layer of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is thicker and provides better coating, but regular yogurt can be used if needed.
What sides go well with this dish?
Pair it with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or pita bread.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted, typically 35-40 minutes.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Marinating helps lock in moisture, and baking at the right temperature ensures a juicy result.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, pan-sear over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to add more flavor?
Use fresh herbs, extra garlic, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I do with leftovers?
Use in wraps, salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls for an easy meal.
Conclusion
Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The creamy yogurt marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender while infusing it with delicious Mediterranean flavors. Serve it with your favorite sides for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Description
This Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The yogurt marinade keeps the chicken moist while infusing it with garlic, lemon, and Mediterranean herbs. It’s an easy, healthy dinner that pairs well with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh Greek salad!
- Make the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the Chicken – Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl and coat them with the yogurt mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken – Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Arrange in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Broil for a Golden Top – (Optional) Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a slightly golden crust.
- Rest & Serve – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
- Substitutions: You can use chicken thighs for a juicier result or swap dried herbs for fresh ones (double the amount if using fresh).
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, rice, or a cucumber-tomato salad.