Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Greek Chicken recipe with a creamy lemon-herb yogurt sauce is your answer. It’s a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can deliver incredible delicious dishes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. This recipe is packed with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and a tangy yogurt sauce that will leave you wanting more. Let's get started on this journey to culinary delight!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
For the Lemon-Herb Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the herbs and spices.
- Add the lemon juice and mix gently. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes). Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Making the Lemon-Herb Yogurt Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
Combining and Serving:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and add it to the bowl with the lemon-herb yogurt sauce. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight for a more intense flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or the yogurt sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Toss some chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini into the skillet with the chicken for a heartier meal.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint, chives, or basil.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables together on a sheet pan for easy cleanup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Greek Chicken recipe with lemon-herb yogurt sauce is a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a healthy and delicious meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this easy recipe and the wonderful flavors of homemade cooking!