Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Yogurt and Herb Marinade

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Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into 4 or 8 pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • A pinch of chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon dried or fresh thyme

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, turmeric, chili flakes (if using), and salt. Add the parsley and thyme at the end.

Why yogurt? It contains lactic acid, which helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful after grilling.

  • Marinate the Chicken:
    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Use your hands to rub the marinade into the meat.

Tip: Make small cuts in the chicken to help the marinade penetrate deeper.

  • Let It Marinate:
    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

The longer the marinade time, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

  • Preheat the Oven or Grill:
    Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, or on a wire rack over the tray to let the fat drip off.
  • Grill or Bake the Chicken:
    Bake or grill the chicken for 40–50 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside.

Tip: For a deeper color, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes.

  • Serve:
    Serve hot with basmati rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh mint yogurt salad.

💡 Extra Tips:

  • Add 1 teaspoon of tomato paste to the marinade for a richer flavor and color.
  • For a smoky taste, grill the chicken over charcoal instead of baking.
  • Serve with tahini sauce or garlic sauce for an extra flavor kick.

Would you like the next recipe to be spicy, creamy, or something specific like chicken curry or lemon herb chicken?