Name: Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1½-2 lbs chicken cutlets (8 pieces); 1/2 cup plain full fat Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 lemon (juiced, about 1/4 cup); 1 tsp lemon zest; 5 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped fine); 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp coriander; 1/4 tsp cumin; 2-3 tbsp olive oil (for pan frying, optional depending on cooking method); Cooking spray (for air fryer option)

Why You’ll Love Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

The yogurt marinade creates incredibly tender, juicy chicken
Bright lemon juice and zest add fresh, vibrant flavor
A balanced blend of herbs and spices gives depth without overpowering
Multiple cooking options: pan fry, air fry, or bake
Perfect for meal prep, salads, wraps, or grain bowls
Family-friendly and great for serving a crowd

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½–2 lbs chicken cutlets (about 8 pieces)
1/2 cup plain full fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 lemon, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
1 tsp lemon zest
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped fine
1/2 tsp salt, or more to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp coriander
1/4 tsp cumin

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and all spices. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Add the chicken cutlets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated in the marinade.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.

Pan Fry Method

Heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too early to prevent sticking.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Remove from the pan, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise as it rests. Slice and serve.

Air Fry Method

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray and arrange the chicken in an even layer.
Cook for 7 minutes, flip, and cook for another 7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer. Slice and serve.

Bake Method

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken evenly.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8

Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1–24 hours
Cook time:
Pan fry: 6–8 minutes
Air fry: 14 minutes
Bake: 15–20 minutes

Total time: Approximately 30–40 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

Add fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Swap the lemon juice for lime juice for a slightly sharper citrus note.

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of cutlets for extra juiciness.

Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

Turn it into skewers by cutting the chicken into chunks and grilling them on kabobs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness without affecting texture.

Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of full fat?

Yes, but full fat Greek yogurt provides better flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.

Why use yogurt in a marinade?

Yogurt contains mild acidity and enzymes that help tenderize the chicken while keeping it juicy.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I grill this chicken instead?

Yes, this marinade works beautifully on the grill. Cook over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What should I serve with this chicken?

It pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, salads, wraps, or warm flatbread.

Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?

Yes, you can freeze it raw in the marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Why should I let the chicken rest after cooking?

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, though flavor and texture may vary.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?

Yes, simply slice the breasts into thinner pieces or adjust cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Yogurt Marinated Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a tender and satisfying meal. With its bright citrus notes, balanced spices, and flexible cooking methods, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try this yogurt marinade, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.