Transform chicken thighs with this zesty lemon and yogurt marinade
Although chicken thighs might seem cliché, a unique marinade can transform their flavor and make the skin delightfully crispy. This is the best recipe for a quick dinner, perfect for everyday meals and special occasions.
Marinating is the best way to add tenderness and flavor to meat. In this version, the marinade has citrus aromas that bring freshness and lightness without overpowering the delicate thighs. Adding yogurt ensures the thighs become perfectly juicy and tender after baking. With crispy skin, the perfect dinner meat is ready.
Meat marinade
In many countries, yogurt or buttermilk is a well-known marinade trick. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which helps break down the meat fibers, making the meat tender and juicy. Simply mix plain yogurt with your favorite spices, immerse the meat, and let it soak to absorb the flavors.
Lemon chicken with crispy skin
In this marinade, yogurt and adding lemon play important roles. Combined with oregano, they give an exceptional flavor, making you fall in love with this chicken thigh recipe from the first bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- Half a cup of Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- Juice from one lemon
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
Preparation:
Step 1. Transfer the meat to a bowl and add the lemon juice, ensuring no seeds fall in. Then add Greek yogurt, olive oil, dried oregano, pressed or grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Cover and set aside to marinate for at least an hour.
Step 2. After marinating, transfer the meat to an ovenproof dish lined with parchment paper. Place in an oven preheated to 340°F and bake for 40 minutes.
For extra crispy skin, you can turn on the "grill" option and bake the chicken for an additional 10 minutes at the end of baking.
Step 3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and serve with your favorite salad. It pairs well with potatoes, fries, grains, or rice. Enjoy!
