In a mixing bowl or cup, combine the 1 cup unsweetened, plain Greek yogurt, 1 ½ tablespoons Greek seasoning, and ½ tablespoon kosher salt. As you mix these ingredients, enjoy the creamy texture and aromatic scents that fill the air.
Zest the 1 large lemon and add the zest to the yogurt mixture. Rolling the lemon on the counter before cutting helps release its juices, making it easier to extract the juice later.
Juice the lemon into the mixture, using a strainer or juicer to catch any seeds. Stir everything together until well combined. You should have a smooth, flavorful marinade that’s rich in color and scent.
Take 2 pounds of chicken and place it into a large resealable bag or a shallow container. This will be the vessel for your marinade.
Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Remove excess air from the bag or cover the container tightly. This step is key to maximizing flavor absorption.
Massage the marinade into the chicken through the bag, or use your hands if you're in a container. Make sure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated for the best flavor.
Refrigerate the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 4 hours. This is the magic time when the flavors meld into the chicken.
When ready, preheat your grill, oven, or skillet according to your cooking method. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
For grilling: Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the cut.
For baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken in a dish for 15 to 20 minutes for breast pieces, or 35 to 40 minutes for thighs or drumsticks.
For pan-frying: Heat a non-stick skillet with a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned on one side, then flip it over, cover, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an even more tender bite.
