Greek-Style Yogurt Marinated Chicken (Grilled, Baked, Air Fried)

Yogurt marinated chicken is juicy, tender, and very flavorful. Combine it with citrus, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices to create the best-tasting chicken you’ve ever had. This marinade works great on any cut of chicken but, it’s especially great on chicken breast because it locks in the moisture and helps all of those delicious flavorings stick.

📝 Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, tenders, or thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 to 2 teaspoons mustard
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• Pita bread, couscous, or rice pilaf
• Greek salad or fresh vegetables
• Bell pepper slices
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Feta cheese
• Olives
• Tzatziki sauce

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Slice the chicken into even strips for quick and even cooking.
2. 2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until smooth.
3. 3Add the chicken to the bowl and toss well to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
4. 4Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before cooking.
5. 5To Cook on the Stovetop: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes without flipping. Flip and cook 5 more minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid moving the chicken too early or the yogurt may stick and tear.
6. 6To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking tray. Bake for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes for extra color.
7. 7To Grill (BBQ Method) Preheat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates. Grill the marinated chicken 5 to 6 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.
8. 8To Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket. Add the chicken in a single layer and air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. 9To ServeServe hot inside warm pita bread to make chicken gyros or with rice pilaf, salad, or grilled vegetables. Add a generous spoonful of tzatziki and top with feta, olives, and sliced fresh veggies.