Name: Easy Yogurt Chicken
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; ¼ cup plain regular or Greek yogurt (I use whole-milk yogurt); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon salt

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Whenever I think about quick and delicious meals, Easy Yogurt Chicken always comes to mind. This dish has become a family favorite, and it’s no surprise why! The combination of succulent chicken tenders marinated in creamy yogurt and aromatic spices creates a flavor explosion that leaves everyone reaching for seconds. I remember the first time I served this dish; I was exhausted after a long day, and I needed something simple yet satisfying. With just a few minutes of prep, I was able to whip up a meal that felt gourmet. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful, while the spices add a warm depth that’s perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of Easy Yogurt Chicken is its versatility. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free recipe that packs a punch of flavor, you’ve found it! Let’s dive into why this dish is so special.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
43 mins

Prep Time:
35 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Storage Containers, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Easy Yogurt Chicken Apart

1. Simple Ingredients

One of the reasons I love Easy Yogurt Chicken is the simplicity of the ingredients. With just a few staples like chicken, yogurt, and aromatic spices, this recipe is approachable for even novice cooks. You don’t need a long grocery list or exotic ingredients to create something delicious.

2. Versatile Cooking Methods

This recipe shines in its flexibility. Whether you choose to air-fry or bake, both methods yield perfectly cooked chicken that is tender and flavorful. It’s great to have options based on what you have available in your kitchen.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

What’s better than having a delicious meal ready to go in your fridge? This Easy Yogurt Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Prepare a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have quick lunches or dinners sorted. Just reheat and enjoy!

4. Flavorful Marinade

The marinade is what truly sets this dish apart. The yogurt not only adds creaminess but also acts as a tenderizer for the chicken. Mixed with spices like garlic powder, oregano, and cumin, it infuses the meat with mouthwatering flavors that are hard to resist.

5. Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The mild flavors and tender texture make it appealing for young eaters, while adults appreciate the delicious spices and quick prep time.

6. Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Easy Yogurt Chicken fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to scale up for larger groups, making it a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

What’s In This Easy Yogurt Chicken

The ingredients for Easy Yogurt Chicken come together beautifully, each one playing a significant role in the final dish. The star, of course, is the chicken, which becomes incredibly juicy and tender thanks to the marinade. The yogurt adds a tangy creaminess, while the spices elevate the flavor profile, creating a harmonious balance that makes every bite satisfying.

1 pound chicken tenders: Tender and juicy, these are perfect for marinating and cooking quickly.
¼ cup plain regular or Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the dish.
½ teaspoon oregano: Adds a fragrant, herby note that complements the chicken.
½ teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

Putting Together Easy Yogurt Chicken

Creating Easy Yogurt Chicken is simple and fun! With just a few steps, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Begin by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need your chicken tenders, yogurt, and spices. This is a great way to prep before you start mixing.
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken tenders, yogurt, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Using a fork, mix everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade. You want to get all those spices onto the chicken for the best flavor!
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. The longer you can let it marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will become. Ideally, aim for up to 8 hours if you have time.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
If using an air fryer, spray the basket with nonstick spray. Once heated, carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes, checking for doneness.
If you’re baking, line a baking sheet or pie plate with nonstick spray or parchment paper. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared pan and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
Slice, shred, or serve the chicken whole, depending on your preference. Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating time: For the best flavor and tenderness, aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 8 hours.
Internal temperature: Always check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safety.
Cooking methods: Both air frying and baking are great options, but air frying speeds up the cooking process significantly.
Flavor variations: Experiment with different spices like paprika or curry powder for a unique twist on this recipe.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to make Easy Yogurt Chicken your own! Here are some handy tips to adapt this recipe to your liking.

Storage: To store leftovers, keep the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking! Just ensure it’s tightly sealed in a freezer bag.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Variations: Use different types of yogurt for different flavors, like Greek for creaminess or flavored yogurt for a twist.
Cooking time: If you’re using chicken thighs instead of tenders, adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

What to Serve Alongside Easy Yogurt Chicken

Pairing your Easy Yogurt Chicken with the right sides makes all the difference! Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Rice: A fluffy rice dish complements the chicken beautifully, soaking up the marinade flavors.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored steamed veggies provide a nutritious balance and vibrant presentation on the plate.
Pasta: Serve with pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a satisfying, carb-friendly option.
Wraps: Use the chicken in a wrap with fresh veggies for a delicious lunch.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, picnics, or meal prep for the week ahead.

FAQ

Absolutely! While chicken tenders are recommended for their quick cooking time, you can also use whole chicken breasts or thighs. Just remember that if you use thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through. Slice whole chicken breasts into strips to mimic the tenderness of tenders, and follow the marinade instructions as usual.

For the best flavor and tenderness, aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have the time, letting it sit in the marinade for up to 8 hours or even overnight will enhance the flavors even more. This allows the yogurt to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with the spices.

This dish pairs wonderfully with many sides! Consider serving it with fluffy rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also get creative and use the chicken in wraps or sandwiches for lunch. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand!

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken! Just place it in a freezer-safe bag with all the marinade and store it for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This makes meal prep a breeze and allows you to enjoy flavorful chicken whenever you want!

Conclusion

The Easy Yogurt Chicken is a special dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also brings smiles to your table. Enjoy making this recipe and savoring every bite!

Easy Yogurt Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Yogurt Chicken combines tender chicken with creamy yogurt and spices for an easy weeknight dinner. With its juicy texture and rich flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight and savor the deliciousness!

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Prep Time 35

Cook Time 8

Total Time 43

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenders
¼ cup plain regular or Greek yogurt I use whole-milk yogurt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt

Equipment

Storage Containers
Baking Sheet

Method

Begin by gathering your ingredients. You'll need your chicken tenders, yogurt, and spices. This is a great way to prep before you start mixing.
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken tenders, yogurt, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Using a fork, mix everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade. You want to get all those spices onto the chicken for the best flavor!
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. The longer you can let it marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will become. Ideally, aim for up to 8 hours if you have time.
When you're ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
If using an air fryer, spray the basket with nonstick spray. Once heated, carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes, checking for doneness.
If you’re baking, line a baking sheet or pie plate with nonstick spray or parchment paper. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared pan and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
Slice, shred, or serve the chicken whole, depending on your preference. Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled!

Notes

Tip 1: Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Tip 2: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Tip 3: Use plain whole-milk Greek or regular yogurt.
Tip 4: To make these with whole chicken breast, slice it into 1-inch strips and proceed with the recipe.
Tip 5: To make with chicken thighs, follow the recipe as written and increase the cooking time by 2 to 4 minutes, or cook until the chicken registers 160 degrees F with an instant read meat thermometer.