Why You’ll Love Easy Yogurt Grilled Chicken Recipe

• The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken and locks in moisture for juicy, flavorful results every time.
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients and simple steps — great for beginner cooks.
• Versatile — serve with salad, rice, or pita wraps for different meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
plain whole‑milk yogurt
lemon juice
vegetable oil
garlic powder
salt
optional spices (turmeric, cayenne pepper)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic powder, salt, and optional spices.
Add the chicken and turn to coat it well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
When ready to cook, heat a grill to medium (about 375°F). If using a grill pan, preheat it over medium heat on the stove.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grease the grill grates.
Grill the chicken until the thickest pieces reach 165°F internal temperature, about 5–6 minutes per side.
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves about 4.
Marinate: 1–24 hours (longer for more flavor)
Grilling time: about 10–12 minutes total.

Variations

• Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier marinade.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like dill, mint, or cilantro to the marinade for extra freshness.
• Swap lemon juice with lime for a citrusy twist.
• Spice it up with chili flakes or harissa paste for a bold kick.
• Try it with lamb or turkey cutlets for a variation in protein.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, or microwave covered in short bursts until heated through.
Cooked chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor and more tenderness, up to 24 hours is ideal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay juicy on the grill.

Do I need to cut the chicken before grilling?

Cutting breasts into smaller pieces increases surface area for charring and marinade absorption, but it’s optional.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or cast‑iron skillet on the stove; cook over medium heat.

What temperature should the chicken reach?

Grill until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I add other seasonings?

Yes, spices like paprika, cumin, or herbs can be added to customize the flavor.

What sides go well with this chicken?

Serve with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, rice, or warm pita bread.

Can I make this in advance for a party?

Yes, marinate the chicken the day before and grill just before serving.

Is yogurt necessary in the marinade?

Yogurt tenderizes and adds moisture, but you could use a different marinade if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Easy Yogurt Grilled Chicken is a simple, flavorful recipe that delivers juicy, tender chicken with minimal effort. Its versatile marinade and straightforward grilling make it perfect for everyday meals and outdoor cookouts alike. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a satisfying dish any night of the week.