Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake

Name: Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Greek yogurt; Juice of 2 lemons; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven-Kissed Treats

When it comes to comforting meals, I just can't resist a good baked chicken dish. This Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake is one of my all-time favorites. I fell in love with how the yogurt tenderizes the chicken while adding a creamy, zesty flavor that elevates the entire meal. Each bite feels light yet satisfying, straddling the line between healthy and indulgent. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm excited to share it with you!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:37:37.169Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of using Greek yogurt in my baked chicken. The idea was simple: yogurt not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also keeps it moist and tender while cooking. It took a couple of tries to get the seasoning just right, but the result was phenomenal—juicy chicken bursting with a delightful lemony tang!

I recommend marinating the chicken in the yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes, if not overnight, to let those flavors truly soak in. The combination of garlic, lemon, and a touch of herbs creates a harmony that elevates this dish to new heights. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lemon's bright and tangy punch enhances the chicken perfectly
Greek yogurt ensures the chicken remains moist and tender
A simple, wholesome dinner that’s ready in under an hour
Minimal prep time without sacrificing flavor

Unlocking the Flavor with Marinade

The marinade is a crucial step in achieving the desired tenderness and flavor profile in this dish. The acidity of the lemon juice not only brightens the flavor but also helps to break down the chicken’s proteins, making it incredibly tender. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for longer than 30 minutes when possible—up to 2 hours will intensify the flavor even more. If time permits, consider preparing the marinade in the morning and allowing the chicken to soak in it throughout the day.

The Greek yogurt plays a dual role in this recipe; it serves both as a marinade and as a cooking medium. Its creamy texture adds richness, while the probiotics benefit gut health. If you're looking for a non-dairy alternative, coconut yogurt can work, but be aware that it may impart a subtle sweetness that can alter the dish's overall flavor. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to keep the tangy taste balanced.

Baking to Perfection

When baking the chicken, achieving the right internal temperature is key to ensuring food safety and optimal texture. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the juices to run clear, and the chicken should no longer be pink inside. To achieve a lovely golden brown crust, you might want to broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

If you find your chicken is not cooking evenly, try flattening the breasts gently with a meat mallet prior to marinating. This helps them cook at a more uniform rate, resulting in juicier meat. Just cover the chicken with plastic wrap during this step to avoid any splatter in your kitchen. And remember, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes post-baking is essential; this allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall juiciness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Greek yogurt
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Let's get started on making this delicious dish!

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the yogurt marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the chicken is marinating.

Bake the Chicken

Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge and place it in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your lovely Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider serving this chicken dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.

Perfect Pairings

This Greek Yogurt Lemon Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with a range of sides. For a light accompaniment, consider serving it alongside a fresh Greek salad tossed with olives and feta. The salad’s crispness complements the chicken's richness while echoing the dish's Mediterranean flavors. If you prefer something heartier, roasted vegetables or a fluffy quinoa pilaf can round out the meal, adding both color and nutrition.

For a delightful twist, serve the chicken on a bed of couscous flavored with lemon zest and fresh herbs. The lightness of the couscous will soak up the flavorful juices, creating a well-rounded dinner experience. To add some crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top, providing an inviting textural contrast.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish with a light drizzle of olive oil, and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps prevent the chicken from drying out, which is common with microwaving.

For longer-term storage, this dish also freezes wonderfully. Simply allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as outlined. The Greek yogurt marinade helps maintain the chicken's moisture during both freezing and reheating, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more flavor.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and bake it when you’re ready.