Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Bake

Name: Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Highlighted under: Hearty Family Meals

I absolutely adore this Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Bake! It combines the tangy creaminess of yogurt with spices that elevate the chicken to new heights. The process is straightforward, and the result is a moist, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. I love how the yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and citrus. You won’t want to miss trying this recipe!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:24:38.742Z

When I first experimented with Greek yogurt in my cooking, I was amazed at how it could transform simple chicken into a culinary delight. The marinade, packed with garlic, lemon, and herbs, not only imparts flavor but also makes the meat incredibly juicy. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour for the best results.

One night, I had some friends over, and I served this dish with a side of roasted vegetables. Everyone was raving about the flavors, and I love that it’s something I can whip up without too much fuss. It became an instant favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and tangy yogurt that elevates the chicken's flavor
Healthy ingredients combined for a delicious meal
Easy preparation with minimal cleanup after cooking

Unlocking Flavor with Yogurt

The secret to the exceptional flavor of the Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade lies in the yogurt itself. Not only does it act as a tenderizer, but its acidity balances the spices and herbs, allowing for a harmonious marinade that seeps deep into the chicken. If you're seeking alternatives, you can substitute the yogurt with buttermilk or a dairy-free yogurt option, which maintains the tenderizing effect while offering a different flavor profile.

When mixing the marinade, aim for a smooth consistency—this helps ensure the chicken is evenly coated. The longer you marinate, the better the flavor infusion; aim for at least one hour, but if you can, refrigerate it overnight. The yogurt serves as a barrier, preventing moisture loss during cooking, resulting in a juicy and succulent chicken.

Perfect Baking for Succulent Chicken

When baking the marinated chicken, preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) is crucial for ensuring even cooking. The high temperature allows the exterior of the chicken to develop a slightly crisp texture while keeping the inside tender. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Letting the chicken rest post-baking is also critical; this allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when sliced.

For added flavor, you can also include vegetables in the baking dish. Sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper can roast alongside the chicken, absorbing the delicious marinade's flavors and creating a completed dish. Just be mindful to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious marinade and bake!

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Marinade

1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken!

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the flavors.

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. Your patience will be rewarded with even more tender and flavorful meat!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade Bake is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing for maximum flavor development. If you have leftovers, the cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it convenient for quick lunches or dinners.

For freezing, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with various sides. A light Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a refreshing crunch. You could also serve it over a bed of quinoa or alongside roasted potatoes to round out your meal. For a zesty kick, drizzle some extra lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.

Experimenting with spices is also encouraged. If you want to introduce some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. Alternatively, consider herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist that complements the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, this marinade works well with fish and pork too! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover Greek Yogurt Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

It pairs great with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.