Name: Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 8 to 10 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat); 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill, chopped; 1 shallot, minced; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 3 reviews

If you are craving a burst of fresh, tangy flavor combined with smoky, juicy grilled chicken, you are in for a treat with this Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe. The magic lies in the luscious marinade where creamy Greek yogurt mingles with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and spices to tenderize and infuse the chicken with irresistible flavor. This recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into a vibrant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try it, this is going to be your go-to grilled chicken recipe that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Raw chicken thighs are placed on crumpled brown parchment paper inside a white plate, showing pale pink flesh with some white fat. Above the plate, a shallot with a smooth brownish skin sits on the white marbled surface. To the right, a small pink scalloped bowl holds dried green herbs, while a white small bowl next to it contains white salt, black pepper, and red paprika arranged in separate sections. Below, a bunch of fresh green dill sprigs lies diagonally on the white marbled surface. On the bottom right, a metal measuring cup filled with thick white yogurt is visible. Next to it, a small white bowl holds two soft yellow cubes of minced garlic. A whole bright yellow lemon is positioned at the bottom left. A folded dusty orange cloth peeks from the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a well-balanced, flavorful marinade that tenderizes and enhances the chicken. These pantry staples and fresh herbs combine to give you tender, aromatic chicken thighs with a gorgeous golden crust from the grill.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for grilling because they stay juicy and cook quickly without drying out.
Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat): This creamy base gently tenderizes the meat while adding a subtle tang and richness.
Fresh dill: Adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the tang of the yogurt beautifully.
Shallot (minced): Brings a mild onion flavor that deepens the marinade’s overall profile.
Minced garlic: Essential for a punch of savory aroma and taste.
Lemon juice and zest: Provide that vibrant citrus zing that lifts the entire dish.
Salt: Brings out all the other flavors and ensures the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
Pepper: Adds a warm spiciness to balance the tang.
Paprika: Contributes subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the grilled thighs.
Dried oregano: Brings an earthy, Mediterranean flair that ties the dish together.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel. This step is crucial because excess moisture can interfere with the marinade absorbing properly and the grilling process. Once dry, set the chicken aside while you prepare your marinade.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy Greek yogurt with fresh dill, finely minced shallot, plenty of minced garlic, and the zest and juice of one lemon. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano to round out the flavors. This combination not only promotes tender, flavorful chicken but also creates a rich coating that clings beautifully to each piece.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs into the bowl and toss until each piece is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, let it marinate overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavors and tender the meat will be. This is the heart of the Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to around 400°F. This temperature will sear the chicken, creating a deliciously crisp exterior while locking in the juicy tenderness inside.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill smooth side down, discarding any leftover marinade in the bowl to avoid flare-ups. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully charred on the outside. Closing the grill lid between flips helps keep the heat consistent for even cooking.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Cover loosely with foil during this resting phase to keep the chicken warm.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

The image shows a white plate with three grilled pieces of chicken that have dark char marks, placed on top of three folded pita bread layers with a light brown toasted texture. On the left side of the plate, there are fresh green mint leaves, and on the right side, green cucumber slices and a small bunch of fresh dill create a fresh contrast. A small white bowl of creamy white sauce is placed near the bottom right of the plate, next to three lemon wedge slices arranged in a fan shape. The surface beneath the plate features a white marbled texture with extra mint leaves and a bowl of similar creamy sauce in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the dish further, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or more dill on top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and some lemon wedges on the side add a fresh, zesty finishing touch that brightens up the smoky grilled flavors.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean-inspired sides. Think fluffy couscous, a crisp Greek salad, or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. For a comforting option, creamy mashed potatoes or rice pilaf are perfect companions that soak up the luscious juices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the grilled chicken thighs sliced over warm pita with tzatziki and fresh salad for a casual street-food vibe. Another fun idea is to chop the chicken and toss it in a grain bowl with roasted veggies, olives, and feta for a balanced, colorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marinated chicken maintains its flavor well, and the yogurt base helps keep it moist during storage.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the chicken can dry out. A quick sear in a skillet over medium heat also works great to bring back the crisp grill marks and fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, boneless skinless chicken breasts can also work. Just be sure to watch the grilling time closely, as breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.

Do I need full-fat Greek yogurt for the marinade?

Full-fat Greek yogurt is preferred because it provides creaminess and richness that helps tenderize the chicken. However, you can use plain low-fat Greek yogurt if you want to lighten it up slightly; the flavor will still be delicious.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum tenderization and flavor infusion. Avoid going beyond 24 hours as the yogurt’s acidity might begin to break down the meat texture too much.

Can I cook this chicken indoors?

Yes! If a grill is not available, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in your oven. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid drying out the meat and achieve a nicely charred exterior.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use pure spices and yogurt without any additives containing gluten. Always double-check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress family or friends with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The combination of tangy yogurt, fresh herbs, and perfectly grilled chicken is such a winner, making every meal feel special and satisfying. Give it a try soon — I promise it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire.