Easy Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken That Melts in Your Mouth

If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet incredibly flavorful chicken recipe, this Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s juicy, tender, and bursting with the bright, tangy flavors of Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon — a true Mediterranean delight that’s surprisingly easy to make. The best part? This recipe locks in moisture to keep the chicken perfectly soft while developing a beautiful golden crust that will have you licking your fingers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For this recipe, all you need are a few wholesome ingredients: chicken breasts or thighs, creamy Greek yogurt, fresh garlic, zesty lemon, and a blend of aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme. Olive oil adds richness, while paprika and a touch of red pepper flakes bring a subtle smoky warmth. The finishing touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.

Using Greek yogurt is a game changer — its thickness clings to the chicken beautifully and tenderizes the meat without overpowering it. If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute regular plain yogurt, but expect a slightly looser marinade.

Why This Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken Is a Must-Try

You’ll love how easy this is! The marinade only takes minutes to prepare, and the hands-off baking means you can focus on prepping your favorite side dishes or just relax. The yogurt marinade is key — it keeps the chicken moist and juicy, even after baking, and infuses it with a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with the herbs and garlic.

Plus, it’s a healthy choice, packed with protein and free from heavy creams or complicated sauces. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a mild kick. This vibrant mixture is the magic behind tender, flavorful chicken.

2. Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken breasts or thighs to a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes — but if you can spare 2-4 hours or overnight, the flavors will deepen wonderfully.

3. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

4. Bake the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, then arrange the pieces in a single layer in the prepared dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). The chicken will be juicy inside with a delicate golden exterior.

5. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
If you love a bit of crunch, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to get that perfect golden-brown finish without burning.

6. Rest and Garnish
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.

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Tips and Tricks for Perfect Greek Yogurt Chicken

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: The longer you marinate, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be. Overnight marinating is ideal if you have the time.
• Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Boneless, skinless breasts are lean and quick, but thighs will give you extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time if using bone-in pieces.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried herbs have more concentrated flavors. If swapping dried for fresh, double the quantity to keep the herbaceous punch.
• Add a Crunch: For an irresistible crispy coating, toss a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs over the chicken before baking.
• Spice it Up: Red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne bring a lovely heat if you like your meals with a bit of a kick.
• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; this keeps your chicken juicy and tender without drying it out.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta is a natural match. For something heartier, serve it alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes. Warm pita bread and a drizzle of tzatziki will turn it into a Mediterranean feast. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon on top for an extra zing!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? No problem! Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well — simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out. Leftover chicken is perfect for wraps, salads, or even grain bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate at least 30 minutes, but overnight really amps up the flavor and tenderness.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt’s thicker texture is better for coating and tenderizing the chicken.

What sides complement this dish?
Try roasted veggies, rice, quinoa, fresh salads, or warm pita bread.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free unless you add breadcrumbs.

Can I cook this on the stovetop or in an air fryer?
Yes! Pan-sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

This Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken is such a crowd-pleaser — it’s easy to make, healthy, and delivers layers of fresh, tangy flavor in every bite. You’ll love how the simple ingredients come together to create a juicy, tender chicken that’s as good for weeknights as it is for meal prep. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!