Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts

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Juicy, golden, and infused with Mediterranean flavors, these Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts are your next go-to for a flavorful and easy dinner. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken to perfection while a blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs gives it that irresistible zesty finish. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or roasting in your oven, this dish delivers mouthwatering results with minimal effort.

What makes this recipe a standout is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients and a short marination time, you get restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle. Pair it with a fresh salad, tuck it into warm pita bread, or slice it over rice bowls—however you serve it, it hits the spot every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts

• Ultra Tender Texture: The acidity in Greek yogurt breaks down the chicken fibers, resulting in juicy, tender meat.
• Bold Mediterranean Flavor: Herbs, garlic, and lemon deliver a fresh, savory punch.
• Easy and Quick Prep: Minimal ingredients, quick marination, and flexible cooking methods.
• Healthy & Protein-Packed: High in protein and lower in fat than many marinades, this option supports a balanced diet.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great hot or cold, this chicken is ideal for batch cooking and storing.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting ready to make Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts is a breeze when you have the right tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients evenly.
• Whisk or Fork: Helps emulsify the yogurt with lemon juice and spices, ensuring a smooth, cohesive marinade.
• Ziploc Bag or Glass Container: For marinating the chicken without mess. Airtight containers help the flavors soak in deeper.
• Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken in the marinade and for placing/removing it from the heat.
• Baking Dish or Grill Pan: Depending on your cooking method, both work well for developing that golden crust.
• Meat Thermometer: Guarantees juicy chicken that’s perfectly cooked without overdoing it.

Proper tools make this process efficient and mess-free while improving your results. A quick whisk, an airtight marinade soak, and an accurate thermometer take this dish from good to great.

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Ingredients for the Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The main protein, perfect for absorbing all the marinade flavors.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Acts as the tenderizing base, giving the chicken a creamy coating and locking in moisture.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to enhance flavor and tenderization.
• Garlic (Minced): Infuses the marinade with robust, savory depth.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps with caramelization during cooking.
• Dried Oregano: Brings earthy Mediterranean character.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): Adds color and a fresh herbal note when serving.

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How To Make the Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the surface or grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken onto your baking dish or grill. Cook for 20-25 minutes in the oven or about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately.

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Serving & Storing Your Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts

This chicken is wonderfully versatile and suits a wide range of dishes. Serve it hot, sliced over a Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta, or layer it inside warm pita bread with tzatziki and crunchy vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with herbed rice, roasted veggies, or a quinoa tabbouleh for a wholesome meal.

To store, allow the chicken to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in foil or stored in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to retain its juiciness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor, you can let it sit up to 8 hours in the fridge.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great and stay incredibly juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on thickness.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can substitute with plain whole milk yogurt, but Greek yogurt gives a creamier consistency and richer flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and can be reheated without losing texture. Perfect for salads, wraps, or rice bowls during the week.

Can I bake this in a convection oven?

Yes, reduce the temperature by about 25°F and keep an eye on the cooking time—it may finish a few minutes earlier.

Should I cover the chicken while baking?

No need to cover it. Leaving it uncovered allows the top to brown and caramelize slightly for more flavor.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breasts, you’re in for a treat with these other flavorful dishes:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a melty, savory hand-held meal.
• Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce when you want something indulgent and comforting.
• Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza for a fun, Mediterranean twist on pizza night.
• Bang Bang Chicken if you’re craving creamy, spicy, and crispy all in one bite.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for an easy weeknight win with tons of zesty flavor.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out! Did you grill or bake it? Add extra herbs or go full spice? I’m always excited to hear how you make these recipes your own.

Got questions or need a substitution tip? Don’t hesitate to ask—let’s cook smarter, together.

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