Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

This yogurt marinated chicken thighs dish is another low carb recipe. Lately, I have been cooking quite a few low carb dishes such as shrimp and asparagus stir fry and baked spaghetti squash with tomato meat sauce. What I have learned from cooking some low carb dishes is that low carb dishes can be easy and tasty. With enough effort, you can have a good variety in a low carb diet as well.
I like this chicken thigh dish because you can really taste the yogurt and spices in the marinade. It is also baked in the oven and not fried, so the clean up is really easy. Best of all, it’s a tasty dish that is pretty easy to make.

In this dish, the chicken thighs are simply marinated in yogurt, lemon, garlic, cumin and cayenne pepper. After letting the mixture marinade in the fridge for an hour, it is placed in a broiler pan and then, it is baked in the oven for about 40 minutes. Finally, the broiler is turned on to get the nice crisp on the skin. Overall, I was happy with how it turned out. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Marinated Chicken Thighs

To get the most flavor out of your yogurt marinade, consider marinating the chicken thighs overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If you’re short on time, even an hour will work, but longer is better. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly in the marinade. You can use a resealable plastic bag for easy mixing and to ensure every piece is well covered. When it comes to baking, preheat your oven fully before placing the chicken inside. This helps in achieving that nice crispy skin. If you want to check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs are perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F. If you prefer skin-on thighs, placing them skin side up in the pan will help achieve that crispy texture. Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and succulent.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These yogurt marinated chicken thighs are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing touch, serve them with a simple cucumber salad tossed in olive oil and lemon juice. The coolness of the salad contrasts nicely with the warm, spiced chicken. Another great option is to serve the chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice. This adds a nice texture and keeps the meal low carb. If you are looking for something heartier, roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. They can be cooked alongside the chicken for an easy one-pan meal. Drizzling a bit of tahini sauce over the chicken before serving can elevate the flavors even more. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can add an extra kick. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts will work, but they might dry out faster since they have less fat than thighs. If you go that route, keep an eye on the cooking time and maybe reduce it a bit.

What can I substitute for plain yogurt?

If you don’t have plain yogurt, try using Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade or sour cream for a similar tang. Just remember that the flavor might change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option, just make sure to wrap it well.

Can I marinate the chicken longer than an hour?

Marinating overnight is actually a great idea if you want more flavor. Just keep in mind that the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken if left too long, so stick to about 24 hours max.

What should I serve with yogurt marinated chicken thighs?

These chicken thighs go well with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or even cauliflower rice for a low carb option. A side of tzatziki sauce could also complement the flavors nicely.

Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

Liza Agbanlog

Yogurt marinated chicken thighs are juicy and tender, infused with zesty lemon and spices. Easy to make, they pack a flavorful punch with every bite.

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 6 in chicken thighs (bone-skin-on)

Marinade

• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
• Add the chicken thighs and mix to coat. Place in the refrigerator and marinate for at least an hour.
• Preheat the oven to 375 F. Place the chicken on a broiler pan.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Broil on high for about 3-4 minutes, until skin is crisp and brown.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgSugar: 2g

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