Marinated chicken in yogurt

Marinated Chicken in Yogurt – A Delicious and Juicy Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marination time: 4-6 hours (or overnight for an intense flavor)
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: Approximately 6 hours (including marination)
Servings: 4

This marinated chicken in yogurt recipe combines the delicate flavors of spices with juicy chicken, resulting in a final dish that will impress both family and friends. Marinating in yogurt not only helps tenderize the meat but also gives it a creamy texture, while the combination with orange adds a fresh and vibrant note.

The origins of this marination method are rich and diverse, having been used throughout time in many culinary cultures. Yogurt has been used as a staple ingredient in meat dishes, serving to tenderize and intensify flavors. Thus, the marinated chicken in yogurt becomes not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one, full of nutrients.

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken wings
- 150 g of full-fat yogurt
- Juice from 1 orange
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of paprika
- A pinch of dried thyme
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A pinch of ground ginger
- A pinch of nutmeg

Useful tips about ingredients:
- Choose full-fat yogurt, as it will help tenderize the meat and add a pleasant creaminess. Greek yogurt is an excellent option.
- Use fresh oranges, as freshly squeezed juice will provide a more intense flavor compared to store-bought juice.
- Spices can be adjusted according to personal preferences. For example, adding cumin or coriander can bring an exotic flavor.

Preparation method:
1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt with the orange juice. Mix well until a smooth paste forms.
2. Add the crushed garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Mix again to integrate all the flavors.
3. Add the chicken thighs and wings to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated with the marinade. This step is crucial, as the marinade must penetrate the meat to achieve the desired flavor.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours, but for best results, let it marinate overnight. This will allow the spices to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in extremely flavorful chicken.
5. Once marination is complete, preheat the grill to low heat. Make sure the grill is well-oiled to prevent the meat from sticking.
6. Place the chicken pieces on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes on each side, or until the meat is golden and crispy, and the juices running from the meat are clear.
7. After the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step will help the juices redistribute in the meat, resulting in juicier chicken.

Serving:
This marinated chicken in yogurt pairs perfectly with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. A delicious option we tried is sweet potato with spices, a side that combines sweetness with the spicy flavors of the chicken. You can also add a spoonful of yogurt sauce with mint to balance the intense flavors of the meat.

Variations:
- If you want to add a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili powder or chili sauce to the marinade.
- For a more exotic taste, you can add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce.
- If you don't have oranges, lemon or lime juice can be an excellent alternative, providing similar acidity.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while yogurt provides a good amount of calcium and probiotics, beneficial for digestive health. The added spices not only enhance the flavor but many of them also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, the recipe works great with turkey, which will require the same marination time.

2. Is it possible to prepare this chicken in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the chicken in a covered dish for 30-40 minutes, then uncover it for the last 10 minutes to achieve a crispy crust.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold blonde beer or a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the marinated chicken.

In conclusion, this marinated chicken in yogurt recipe is not only easy to make but also a true feast for the senses. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and customize your marinade to create a dish that reflects your own tastes. Enjoy your meal!