3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken: The Simplest Way to Make Juicy, Flavor-Packed Chicken Every Time

When it comes to easy, reliable dinner recipes, few things are as satisfying as a perfectly cooked piece of chicken. Yet, chicken has a reputation for being tricky—too dry, too bland, or too overcooked. That’s where this 3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken completely changes the game.

This recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients, complicated steps, or hours in the kitchen to create a chicken dish that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. With just three basic ingredients, this yogurt-marinated chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using a method that home cooks around the world have relied on for generations.

Yogurt has been used as a marinade base in Middle Eastern, Indian, Mediterranean, and North African cooking for centuries. Its natural acidity gently tenderizes meat without turning it mushy, while its creamy texture helps flavors cling beautifully to the chicken. When cooked, the yogurt creates a lightly caramelized coating that seals in moisture and enhances every bite.

Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook, a beginner in the kitchen, or someone looking for a healthier protein option, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Why Yogurt Is the Secret to Juicy Chicken

Yogurt works differently from vinegar or citrus-based marinades. Instead of aggressively breaking down the meat fibers, yogurt tenderizes chicken slowly and evenly. The result is chicken that stays moist on the inside while developing a deliciously golden exterior when cooked.

Another bonus? Yogurt adds protein and richness without excess fat. It’s naturally low in calories, high in calcium, and incredibly versatile. This makes yogurt-marinated chicken not only flavorful but also a health-conscious choice.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken thighs or chicken breasts
• 1½ cups plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek recommended)
• 1½ teaspoons salt

That’s it. Three ingredients. No oil required, no complicated spice blends, and no special equipment.

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken
   Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the yogurt adhere better and promotes even cooking later.
2. Mix the marinade
   In a large bowl, combine the yogurt and salt. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.
3. Marinate the chicken
   Add the chicken pieces to the yogurt mixture. Toss until every piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for 2–12 hours.
4. Bring to room temperature
   Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook the chicken
   Heat a skillet, grill pan, or oven depending on your preferred method. Cook the chicken until golden on the outside and fully cooked inside (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
6. Rest and serve
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Cooking Methods Explained

Pan-Seared:
Perfect for a crispy exterior. Use a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side.

Oven-Baked:
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes. Broil for the final 3–5 minutes for extra color.

Grilled:
Grill over medium heat for smoky flavor. Great for summer meals and outdoor cooking.

Flavor Variations (Still Simple!)

While this recipe shines with only three ingredients, you can easily customize it:

• Add garlic powder for depth
• Add paprika or chili powder for warmth
• Add lemon zest for brightness
• Add cumin or turmeric for global flair

Even with additions, yogurt remains the star.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy rice or couscous
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad
• Slice and use in wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls
• Serve alongside flatbread and yogurt sauce

This chicken works for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or entertaining.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Meal Prep

Yogurt-marinated chicken stays juicy even after reheating, making it ideal for meal prep. Store cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Fun Cultural Note

Yogurt-based marinades are deeply rooted in global cuisines—from Indian tandoori chicken to Middle Eastern shawarma. This minimalist version respects that tradition while making it accessible to modern home cooks everywhere.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken proves that simplicity is powerful. With almost no prep and maximum payoff, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.

3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Ultra-juicy chicken marinated in yogurt and salt for a simple, flavorful, and foolproof meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean

Calories: 260

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 2 lb chicken thighs or breasts
• 1.5 cups plain yogurt Greek or full-fat
• 1.5 tsp salt

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet or baking sheet

Method

 

1. Pat chicken dry and set aside.
2. Mix yogurt and salt in a bowl until smooth.
3. Coat chicken fully in the yogurt mixture.
4. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Cook chicken in a skillet, oven, or grill until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add garlic powder or spices without increasing complexity.