Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade
4 Ingredients, Restaurant-Quality Chicken
Greek yogurt transforms chicken. The acidity tenderises, the protein creates a crust, and the result is juicy meat every single time.
Macros (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | |----------|---------|-------|-----| | 320 kcal | 48g | 4g | 12g |
Ingredients
Marinade
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost | |------------|--------|------| | Greek yogurt | 200g | £0.80 | | Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | £0.15 | | Garlic powder | 1 tsp | £0.05 | | Paprika | 1 tsp | £0.05 | | Salt | 1 tsp | £0.02 | | Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | £0.02 |
Chicken
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost | |------------|--------|------| | Chicken breast | 600g (4 breasts) | £3.60 |
Total: £4.69 | Per serving: £1.17 + marinade £0.63 = £1.80
Method
Step 1: Make Marinade
Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in bowl.
Step 2: Marinate
Add chicken. Coat thoroughly. Refrigerate 2-24 hours.
Step 3: Cook
Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
Option A: Oven
- 180°C for 25 minutes
- Until internal temp 74°C
Option B: Pan
- Medium-high heat
- 6-7 minutes per side
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing
Option C: Grill
- Medium heat
- 6 minutes per side
- Beautiful char marks
Why It Works
Yogurt tenderises: Lactic acid breaks down proteins without making mushy.
Protein browns: Yogurt proteins create Maillard reaction = golden crust.
Locks in moisture: Fat in yogurt prevents drying out.
Adds flavour: Tangy base for any spices you want.
Variations
Indian: Add curry powder, turmeric, cumin Mexican: Add lime, chilli powder, coriander Mediterranean: Add oregano, rosemary, thyme Asian: Add ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil
Storage
Marinated: 24 hours in fridge Cooked: 4 days in fridge Freeze: Raw marinated chicken up to 3 months
Serving Ideas
- Sliced over salad
- In wraps with veggies
- With roasted vegetables
- On rice with sauce
- Meal prep with quinoa
Tips
Don't skip the rest: Let cooked chicken rest 5 minutes. Juices redistribute.
Check temperature: 74°C internal. Thermometer is essential.
[Digital thermometer on Amazon →]
Save marinade: Can be used as sauce if boiled (kills bacteria).
Shopping List
□ Greek yogurt (full-fat)
□ Chicken breast (600g)
□ Lemons
□ Garlic powder
□ Paprika
Last updated: April 2026