Description
This flavorful Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of plain yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, then pan-seared to golden perfection. The yogurt marinade not only infuses the chicken with bright, savory flavors but also helps keep the meat juicy and tender. Perfect served alongside a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
- ½ cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them thoroughly in the marinade to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate and the chicken to tenderize.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the pan is hot before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place them carefully in the hot skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until the chicken develops a golden-brown crust and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm alongside your choice of fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Baking Option: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, space chicken breasts evenly, and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Air Frying Option: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray basket lightly with non-stick spray, place chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping, and cook flipping once until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Always let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to retain moisture and ease slicing.
- Use only plain, unsweetened yogurt to avoid unwanted flavors in the dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat by warming gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwaving until heated through.
