Description
This Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken recipe features tender and juicy chicken marinated in a creamy Greek yogurt mixture, infused with garlic, oregano, lemon, and olive oil. Perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired main dish that pairs beautifully with sides like couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Greek salad. It’s healthy, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5–2 lbs (about 8 pieces) boneless chicken thighs or breasts (skin on or off).
Chicken Marinade
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice + zest from one lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
For Serving
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, oregano, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs or breasts into a gallon-sized plastic food storage bag or a large plastic container.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours (overnight is best for maximum flavor).
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease the inside of a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the Chicken for Baking
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and shake off any excess marinade.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken
- Bake the chicken, uncovered, for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite Mediterranean sides.
Notes
- Chicken Thickness: If using boneless chicken breasts, slice thick pieces in half horizontally and pound them to an even thickness with a meat mallet for consistent cooking.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Thermometer Tip: Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chicken is perfectly done at 165°F.
- Extra Crispy Skin: If using chicken thighs with skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking to crisp up the skin.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg