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The Best Chicken Marinade

A flavorful marinade that elevates chicken with a savory blend of yogurt, lemon, and spices for a juicy and tender result.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup plain yogurt for a creamy texture
  • 1/4 cup olive oil adds richness
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice from about 2 lemons for acidity
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced for that wonderful aroma
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin for warmth
  • 1 tablespoon paprika for depth
  • to taste Salt and pepper to enhance flavor
  • optional Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine the plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Marinating
  1. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
  2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Squeeze out any excess air if using a bag and seal it tight.
  3. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; however, for optimal flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
Cooking
  1. Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet.
  2. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which will ensure it’s perfectly done while keeping it juicy.
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, swap the yogurt for coconut yogurt. Avoid marinating for more than 12 hours as the acid can break down the chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for a month.