Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken and Greek Yogurt recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and surprisingly good for you. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals without sacrificing deliciousness. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. This marinating step is key for tender and flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in the chopped red onion and cucumber. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish is perfect served on its own, over rice, quinoa, or with a side of your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before for even more intense flavor.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Increase the amount of lemon juice and add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. This variation offers a fantastic healthy meal option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Chicken and Greek Yogurt recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy food recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish! It's one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying meal, making it a go-to choice for healthy meal prepping and a welcome addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Remember to adapt the recipe to your own preferences and enjoy the process of homemade cooking!