Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

Name: Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Good-For-You Recipes

I absolutely love making Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a flavor-packed dish that’s incredibly juicy and tender. The yogurt not only adds a creaminess but also helps to tenderize the meat, infusing it with a delightful taste from the herbs and spices. It's perfect served with a side of grilled veggies or over a bed of rice, and I promise it will become a family favorite in no time!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:17:35.997Z

When I first experimented with Greek yogurt as a marinade, I was amazed by the results. The chicken came out so succulent and full of flavor that it totally changed my perspective on marinating. I love to use a combination of spices like cumin and paprika for an authentic kick, and letting the chicken marinate overnight really maximizes the flavor.

One of the best tips I can share is to always use bone-in, skin-on thighs for this recipe. They retain moisture beautifully during cooking, resulting in a perfectly juicy bite every time. Trust me, your guests will be raving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy yogurt marinade ensures super tender and juicy chicken.
Flavors are packed with aromatic herbs and spices.
Quick and easy prep that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule.

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for these chicken thighs is a vital element that transforms the dish's flavor and texture. Greek yogurt serves not only as a tasty base but also acts as a tenderizing agent due to its acidity. This means that the longer you let the chicken marinate, up to overnight, the more succulent and flavorful the chicken becomes. I recommend at least 30 minutes of marination, but if time allows, opt for a longer soak to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.

Incorporating aromatic spices such as cumin and smoked paprika adds depth to the chicken’s flavor profile. The cumin provides an earthy warmth, while the smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the richness of the yogurt. When mixed evenly and allowed to work its magic, these ingredients create a balanced marinade that ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Baking at 425°F (220°C) is key for achieving that golden-brown skin while keeping the inside moist and tender. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on parchment paper to allow air to circulate. This prevents steaming and ensures that the skin becomes crispy. Look for the skin to turn a beautiful golden shade, which indicates a perfect roast. If you find the skin isn't browning enough, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Using a meat thermometer is crucial for checking doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of a thigh, avoiding the bone, and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the chicken isn’t quite there, continue baking and check in another 5-minute interval. This will ensure your chicken is not overcooked, preserving juiciness while achieving safety.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients together to create a creamy marinade that will absolutely transform your chicken!

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best results.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This simple yet delicious method will leave you with perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Don't skip the resting time after cooking
it helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're in a pinch and don’t have Greek yogurt, plain regular yogurt can work as a substitute, but the marinated chicken may not be quite as creamy or tender. Additionally, you can swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts, though note that breasts may require reduced cooking time for the best texture and moisture retention.

For those looking to reduce dairy, a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of vinegar with your choice of spices can create a suitable marinade. This option will change the texture somewhat and keep the dish lighter but still flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these chicken thighs alongside grilled vegetables is an excellent way to enhance your meal. The smoky char from the grill pairs excellently with the rich flavors of the chicken. Consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, grilled until tender and slightly caramelized for that extra flavor dimension.

You can also serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa drizzled with a bit of olive oil and lemon. The contrast of textures and flavors elevates your dining experience. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp Greek salad topped with feta and olives to complement the Mediterranean vibe of this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work, but cooking time may be shorter—check for doneness at 20 minutes.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, following the same marinating and cooking steps.