Irresistible Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs Recipe
This Irresistible Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon, and spices. Baked to perfection, this Mediterranean-inspired dish offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes, making it an easy and delicious main course for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or mint), for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the plain full-fat yogurt, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the bone-in chicken thighs into the yogurt marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; for best results, marinate overnight to maximize flavor infusion and tenderness.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Place in the hot oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint before serving to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Marinating overnight intensifies flavor and tenderness but a minimum of one hour is sufficient.
- You can use boneless chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Use full-fat yogurt for a creamier marinade and better flavor absorption.
- Internal temperature should be checked with a meat thermometer for safe cooking.
Keywords: yogurt marinated chicken, baked chicken thighs, Mediterranean chicken recipe, easy chicken marinade, yogurt chicken, garlic and lemon chicken
