Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to India with our tantalizing Chicken Thighs in Yogurt Marinade! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Indian cuisine. With succulent chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, spices, and aromatic herbs, every bite promises to be a burst of flavor. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious home-cooked dinner, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to perfectly tender and flavorful chicken? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk ingredients together until well blended.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the marinade adhere better to the meat.
- Place chicken thighs in the yogurt marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Remove marinated chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Remove chicken thighs from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not touching.
- Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and serve with rice, naan, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken thighs dry before marinating. Removing excess moisture helps the marinade stick better and enhances the overall texture.
- Room Temperature: Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This also helps achieve that perfect juicy texture.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the garnish! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Chicken Thighs in Yogurt Marinade with fluffy rice, warm naan, or a side of roasted vegetables to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
