Description
Greek culinary magic meets protein-packed “Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken” in this Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Creamy yogurt marinade infuses tender chicken with remarkable flavor, delivering a light yet satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Yogurt and Seasonings:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Ingredient:
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a spacious mixing vessel, whisk together tangy Greek yogurt with minced garlic, fragrant oregano, smoky paprika, and a balanced blend of salt and pepper to create a vibrant marinade.
- Submerge chicken breasts completely in the yogurt mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld for a minimum of half an hour or up to an entire day for intensified taste profiles.
- Activate the oven, calibrating the temperature to a precise 400°F, creating an optimal roasting environment for succulent poultry.
- Lightly lubricate a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent potential sticking. Carefully transfer marinated chicken breasts, positioning them with adequate spacing to promote even heat circulation.
- Roast the chicken for approximately 35 minutes, monitoring internal temperature until it reaches the food-safe threshold of 165°F. The exterior should develop a golden, slightly caramelized surface while maintaining juicy interior meat.
- Once cooked, remove from oven and allow a brief resting period to redistribute internal juices. Plate alongside complementary accompaniments for a complete culinary experience.
Notes
- Tenderize the meat by using Greek yogurt, which contains natural enzymes that help break down protein fibers, ensuring incredibly juicy and soft chicken.
- Experiment with spice variations like adding za’atar, sumac, or smoked paprika to create different flavor profiles while maintaining the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
- Reduce marinating time to 15-20 minutes if you’re short on preparation time, though longer marination enhances deeper flavor penetration and meat tenderness.
- Transform this recipe into a low-carb or keto-friendly option by serving with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables instead of traditional grain-based sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 48 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg