Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade creates tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Packed with Mediterranean flavors from lemon, garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs boneless chicken breasts
  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • Optional Add-Ons:
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, lemon juice, black pepper, oregano, salt, cayenne, cumin, and garlic until smooth. Stir in chopped cilantro.
  2. Place chicken in a ziplock bag or container. Pour marinade over and massage to coat.
  3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  4. To Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high, oil grates, and cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
  6. To Pan-Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6 minutes per side until cooked through.
  7. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
  • Swap cilantro with parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • Add honey for a slightly sweet contrast.
  • Marinade also works well on lamb or fish.
  • Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months for quick meals.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling, Baking, or Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg