Recipe: Chicken Thighs with Yogurt Marinade
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 4 pieces |
| Natural plain yogurt | 250g |
| Whole milk | 60g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 20g |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Oregano | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Natural plain yogurt (for sauce) | 100g |
| Extra virgin olive oil (for sauce) | 5g |
| Lemon juice | ½ lemon |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon |
| Salt (for sauce) | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade:
Start by making the yogurt marinade. In a blender or food processor, combine the plain yogurt, whole milk, olive oil, and garlic. Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined. This flavorful marinade will tenderize the chicken while infusing it with rich taste. -
-
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or dish. Pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Flip the chicken pieces to evenly distribute the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. -
Cook the Chicken:
After marinating, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes, turning them occasionally for even browning. Once they are seared, transfer the chicken to a baking dish, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and place them in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F). Roast the chicken for approximately 20 minutes or until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. -
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
While the chicken is roasting, prepare a refreshing yogurt sauce to accompany the dish. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 100g of natural yogurt with the juice of ½ lemon and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well-seasoned. For an extra burst of flavor, add freshly grated lemon zest. -
Serve:
Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the juicy, tender chicken alongside the creamy yogurt sauce, garnished with a sprinkle of oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the savory chicken and tangy yogurt sauce.
Tips:
- For an even richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes to the yogurt sauce.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
