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Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Thighs Recipe with Tangy Marinade

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This recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a tangy Greek yogurt mixture, delivering a creamy, garlicky, and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
  • Honey or sugar to balance tanginess (optional)
  • Optional extras: cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for spice, fresh thyme or rosemary for herb variation

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, until smooth and creamy.
  2. Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels to help crisp the skin.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to overnight.
  4. About 20 minutes before cooking, remove chicken from the fridge to come to room temperature.
  5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil, swirling to coat.
  6. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for 7–9 minutes until skin is golden and crisp.
  7. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 7 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover loosely, and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Do not move chicken too soon while cooking to avoid sticking. Let chicken rest after cooking for juicy results. If skin browns too fast, reduce heat. For dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt. Marinate for 1 to 24 hours but avoid exceeding 24 hours to prevent over-tenderizing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek yogurt chicken, chicken thighs, tangy marinade, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, Greek cuisine, healthy chicken, yogurt marinade

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/easy-greek-yogurt-chicken-thighs-recipe-with-tangy-marinade-guide/