This 5-Ingredient Lemon Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The creamy marinade made with Greek yogurt and the bright flavors from lemon comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is a go-to that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor. The combination of lemon and yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and delicious every time. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a special occasion. You’ll find this recipe works reliably well, whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your marinated chicken:
- Juice of 1/2 large lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Mediterranean spiced sea salt
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts
Ingredient Notes, Variations & Simple Swaps
Feel free to adjust this recipe to fit your taste. You can use different spices or herbs to personalize the marinade further. If you don’t have Mediterranean spiced sea salt, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cumin will work just as well. For a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Chicken thighs can also be used for a more flavorful option and they tend to stay juicy during cooking.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Whisk or fork for mixing
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, plain Greek yogurt, and Mediterranean spiced sea salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This mixture will create a delicious marinade that infuses flavor into the chicken.
Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and stir to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Once the chicken is covered, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for 20 minutes, or if you have more time, up to an hour for deeper flavor.
Step 3 – Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for around 6-8 minutes on each side. The chicken is done when the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center. Once grilled, feel free to season with black pepper and salt to taste. Discard any leftover marinade and serve your grilled chicken with salad, potatoes, or your favorite sides!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make sure your grilled chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure that the grill is preheated for proper searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach 165°F internally.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill to ensure even cooking.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling for better juiciness.
- If you’re using thicker chicken breasts, you may need to grill them for a couple more minutes.
- Experiment by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Flavor Variations
You can easily switch things up with these flavor variations:
- Add minced garlic to the marinade for a robust flavor.
- Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro for a vibrant touch.
- Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
- Sneak in a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This flavorful grilled chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans
- Quinoa or couscous for a hearty option
- Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing touch
Storage, Make-Ahead & Leftovers
Leftovers from this recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place the grilled chicken in an airtight container. If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken earlier in the day and grill it later. For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Lemon Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/2 large lemon Juice of 1/2 large lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Mediterranean spiced sea salt
Chicken
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, plain Greek yogurt, and Mediterranean spiced sea salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended.
Marination
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and stir to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for 20 minutes, or up to an hour for deeper flavor.
Cooking
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place it on the grill. Cook for around 6-8 minutes on each side or until juices run clear.
- Once grilled, season with black pepper and salt to taste. Discard any leftover marinade and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative and provide even more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may require less time on the grill.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the chicken and check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink inside.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can use a grill pan on the stove or bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until done.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it well before adding the chicken when you’re ready to cook.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any side dishes you serve alongside are also gluten-free if you are catering to dietary restrictions.
