Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe features tender bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh herbs, and spices. Baked or grilled to perfection, this dish offers a juicy, aromatic protein that’s perfect for a healthy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (about 5-6 thighs)
- 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 + extra for garnish
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Extra lemon wedges for garnish
- Extra chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large glass or plastic bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the bone-in chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
- Preheat and Cook: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease a baking dish if using the oven, or grease the grill grates if grilling. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the baking dish or on the grill.
- Bake or Grill the Chicken: If baking, cook the chicken for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 162°F (72°C). If grilling, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, also until the chicken is golden and reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes; during this time, the internal temperature will rise to about 165°F (74°C), ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat meat. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving immediately.
Notes
- Marinating for longer than 15 minutes, up to 24 hours, enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful meat; skin-on is optional depending on preference.
- Adjust lemon juice quantity if you prefer a more or less tangy flavor.
- Internal cooking temperature is crucial for safe poultry consumption; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- This recipe can be easily adapted to use boneless chicken, though cook times will be shorter.
