Yogurt and Lemon Marinated Grilled Chicken
Try this Yogurt and Lemon Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Yogurt and Lemon Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 lemon juiced
- chicken
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt i like 2% or whole fat
- 1 lemon all zest freshly grated and juiced
- lemon chive yogurt dip
- 2/3 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest from the lemon you juice
- pinch of smoked paprika
- pinch of cayenne pepper
- burst garlic cherry tomatoes
- Carbohydrate 7.20416355151093 g
- Cholesterol 152.905625164061 mg
- Fat 12.6401031430012 g
- Fiber 1.89453097168299 g
- Protein 38.0683381263177 g
- Saturated Fat 3.00245483347282 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (277g)
- Sodium 173.83323485606 mg
- Sugar 5.30963257982794 g
- Trans Fat 1.60260662896065 g
- Calories 294 calories
Step-by-step
- Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and toss to coat.
- Marinate for at least 2 hours or even overnight.
- When ready to grill, preheat your grill to high for at least 10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken with kitchen tongs and place it directly on the hot grates.
- Grill for 3 to 4 minutes, then flip and grill for 5 minutes more.
- Flip once or twice more for about a minute each, totaling your cook time to 10 or 12 minutes.
- You want the internal temperature of the thighs to be 165 degrees F.
- Remove the thighs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Whisk together the lemon chive yogurt dip ingredients in a bowl until combined.
- This keeps great in the fridge for a day or two.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add in the tomatoes and toss to coat in the oil.
- Cook, stirring or shaking the pan often, until the tomatoes begin to burst, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic. Cook for another minute then turn off the heat.
- Stir in the salt and pepper.
My Go-To Grilled Chicken Recipe: Simple, Flavorful, and Perfect for Busy Weeknights
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant battle. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, the last thing I want to spend my precious evenings doing is slaving over a hot stove. That's why I've developed a love for quick, easy, and flavorful recipes that don't sacrifice taste for convenience. This Yogurt and Lemon Marinated Grilled Chicken is a perfect example. It's so simple, yet the flavor is incredible. The yogurt marinade is incredibly tenderizing and adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond your typical grilled chicken.
I love how versatile this recipe is. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a summer barbecue. The chicken is incredibly juicy and flavorful, and the marinade is so easy to make – simply whisk everything together in a bowl and let the chicken soak it up. I often marinate mine overnight for maximum flavor penetration, which allows the yogurt to work its magic on the chicken. But even a couple of hours is sufficient in a pinch.
The best part? The cleanup is a breeze! I usually just toss the marinade bag and wipe down the grill, minimizing the post-dinner cleanup. This allows me to focus my energy on the important things: spending quality time with my family and making memories. This recipe has become a staple in my weekly meal plan for a reason – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. My kids gobble it down, and it's a delicious and healthy meal to share with family.
Beyond the Grill: Adapting this Recipe for Your Lifestyle
While grilling is my preferred method, this marinade works just as well with pan-fried or baked chicken. If the weather isn’t cooperating, or you don’t own a grill, simply sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side, until cooked through. Alternatively, you could bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Another thing I love about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize the marinade to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or some red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano would also be fantastic additions. The possibilities are endless!
I often serve this grilled chicken with a simple side salad, some roasted vegetables, or even some fluffy rice. It's also delicious in tacos, salads, or sandwiches. The leftover chicken can be used in lunch salads or other quick meals throughout the week, saving me time and effort in the long run. This recipe isn't just about a tasty meal; it's about smart cooking that fits seamlessly into my busy schedule.
Making it a Meal: Side Dish Suggestions
The beauty of this grilled chicken is its versatility. It pairs well with a wide array of side dishes, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:
- Quinoa or Brown Rice Salad: A healthy and flavorful side that complements the chicken beautifully. Add some chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs for extra freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to the tender chicken.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad with feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes adds a Mediterranean flair to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries provide a delicious sweet and savory contrast to the chicken.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh and light side salad with your favorite dressing is always a good choice.
This Yogurt and Lemon Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe is more than just a dish; it's a testament to the fact that healthy, flavorful meals can be both simple and satisfying, even for those with demanding schedules. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and nutritious meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
