These yogurt marinated chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! The yogurt makes the chicken super tender while adding a yummy tangy taste.
Plus, this is a fun recipe to make! You just mix up the yogurt with spices, slather it on the chicken, and let it sit. Easy peasy! I love grilling them for a picnic treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts work too, but they may dry out faster without the marinade.
Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt is my go-to because it’s thick and adds creaminess. If you need a dairy-free alternative, try non-dairy yogurt made from almond, coconut, or soy, but check the flavor for best results.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives a bright flavor. You can also substitute it with lime juice if you prefer a different citrus taste. Just avoid bottled juice as it lacks that fresh zing.
Spices: The combination of spices really makes the dish. If you don’t have ground coriander or cumin, you can swap them for curry powder, which has a good mix of flavors. Adjustable spice levels can also suit your taste by increasing or skipping the cayenne pepper.
How Do You Get The Most Flavor from the Marinade?
Marinating the chicken properly is key to a flavorful dish. Start by mixing all marinade ingredients in a large bowl until they’re well combined. A plastic wrap cover is helpful for refrigeration, so flavors really absorb. Here’s how you get it right:
- Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. You want it to soak up all those lovely flavors.
- Let it marinate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better! This allows the yogurt to tenderize the chicken beautifully.
- When ready to grill, shake off excess marinade. Too much can create flare-ups on the grill!
How to Make Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 2 hours of marinating time—preferably overnight for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. In total, plan for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes, but you can do the marinade ahead of time and enjoy the cooking process later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and a little salt and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined to create a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure that each thigh is fully coated in the delicious mixture. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you have time, letting it marinate overnight will make it even tastier!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using a grill pan on the stovetop, heat it over medium-high heat instead. After removing the chicken from the fridge, take it out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and get those nice char marks.
4. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check the internal temperature at around 5-6 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute Coconut Yogurt for Dairy-Free Option?
Yes, coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free substitute! It will lend a different flavor, but the spices and lemon will help balance it out. Just make sure to choose a plain, unsweetened variety for the best results!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for just 2 hours will still yield delicious results. Try not to go over 24 hours, as the yogurt can start to break down the meat too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or a skillet to preserve the texture. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps!
