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Close-up of yogurt-marinated chicken on a light grey plate.

Easy Yogurt Marinated Chicken Recipe

Tender and flavorful chicken marinated in a creamy yogurt sauce with aromatic spices. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
Marinade
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • to taste Salt and pepper
Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

  1. Combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Add chicken to the marinade, mix well, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  5. Add chicken to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
  6. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
  7. Serve hot with rice, naan, or your favorite sides.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.