3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken (Juicy, Simple & Foolproof)

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones — and this 3-ingredient yogurt marinated chicken proves exactly that. With just yogurt, salt, and chicken, you can create incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken with minimal effort and maximum payoff.

This recipe relies on the natural power of yogurt to tenderize meat while locking in moisture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, grilling season, or anytime you want reliable, delicious chicken without a long ingredient list.

Why Yogurt Is the Ultimate Chicken Marinade

Yogurt has been used for centuries in cooking across many cultures — and for good reason.

Gentle Tenderizing
The lactic acid in yogurt breaks down proteins slowly, making chicken tender without turning it mushy.

Moisture Lock
Yogurt coats the chicken, helping it stay juicy during cooking.

Versatile Flavor Base
Even with just salt, yogurt enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and pairs with any seasoning or sauce later.

Why This 3-Ingredient Recipe Works

• No complicated prep
• No special equipment
• Works with grilling, baking, pan-searing, or air frying
• Naturally high-protein and healthy

It’s the kind of recipe you can memorize and use forever.

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken

That’s it — just three.

Ingredients:

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
• Salt

Instructions: How to Make 3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix yogurt and salt until combined.
3. Add chicken and coat thoroughly with yogurt mixture.
4. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best results.
5. Remove excess yogurt before cooking.
6. Cook chicken using your preferred method:
   • Grill over medium heat 5–7 minutes per side
   • Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 25–30 minutes
   • Pan-sear over medium heat until golden and cooked through
7. Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving.

3-Ingredient Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Ultra-juicy chicken marinated in yogurt and salt for a simple, foolproof, and healthy meal.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Global

Calories: 320

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lb chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp salt to taste

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish or skillet
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Pat chicken dry.
2. Mix yogurt and salt.
3. Coat chicken evenly and marinate at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove excess yogurt and cook using preferred method.

Notes

Marinate up to 24 hours for maximum tenderness.

Cooking Method Breakdown

Grilling:
Adds light char and smoky flavor.

Baking:
Hands-off and perfect for meal prep.

Pan-Searing:
Creates crispy edges with juicy centers.

Air Fryer:
Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Optional Flavor Add-Ons (Still Simple)

While this recipe shines with just three ingredients, you can easily customize:

• Lemon juice or zest
• Garlic powder
• Paprika or cumin
• Fresh herbs

Add them after marinating or during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve yogurt marinated chicken with:

• Rice or quinoa
• Roasted vegetables
• Flatbread or pita
• Fresh salad with lemon dressing

It also works beautifully in wraps, bowls, or meal prep containers.

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator:
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 3-ingredient yogurt marinated chicken is:

• Foolproof
• Budget-friendly
• Healthy and protein-packed
• Incredibly versatile

It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the easiest way to make juicy, tender chicken every single time, this 3-ingredient yogurt marinated chicken is the answer. Simple ingredients, flexible cooking methods, and consistently great results make it a true kitchen essential.