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Creamy yogurt marinated chicken is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. This delectable recipe combines the rich creaminess of yogurt with a blend of spices and aromatics, resulting in chicken that is not only flavorful but also incredibly tender. The allure of this dish lies in its versatility; it can be grilled, baked, or sautéed, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Discover the magic of creamy yogurt marinated chicken with this flavorful recipe! Yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a rich blend of spices, resulting in a juicy and succulent dish. Perfect for grilling, baking, or skillet cooking, this versatile recipe suits any occasion. Packed with protein and probiotics, it's a delicious choice that nourishes while satisfying your taste buds. Elevate your mealtime with this delectable dish!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons paprika (smoked or sweet, as preferred)

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh cilantro for garnishing (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended into a smooth marinade.

    Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated in the yogurt mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for deeper flavor.

      Preheat the Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet. If you’re grilling, set the grill to medium-high heat. For a skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

        Cook the Chicken:

          - Grilling: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken has a nice char.

            - Skillet: Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.

              - Baking: Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

                Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat source and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain juices and tenderness. Slice if desired.

                  Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, garnish with fresh cilantro (if using), and serve with a side of fresh salad, pita bread, or your favorite grain.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 2 hours (plus marinating) | 4 servings