This Green Chicken Marinade is packed with vibrant flavors from fresh cilantro, ginger, and a mix of spices that bring a deliciously bold and aromatic kick to your chicken. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying, this marinade makes any chicken dish feel special and is easy to prepare. It’s a great way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with minimal effort!

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound chicken breasts

Directions

Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through.
Serve: Serve the grilled chicken hot with your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including marination time)
Servings: 4

Variations

Use Bone-in Chicken: For a more flavorful option, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Add More Heat: If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the marinade.
Add a Citrusy Twist: For a citrusy zing, try adding the juice of one lime or lemon to the marinade.
Grilled Vegetables: Marinate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant in the same marinade for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use this marinade on other meats?
Yes, this marinade works well with lamb, pork, or even fish. Adjust cooking times based on the type of meat.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
Is this marinade spicy?
The cayenne pepper adds a mild heat, but if you prefer less spice, you can reduce or omit the cayenne.
Can I use low-fat yogurt?
Yes, you can use low-fat or Greek yogurt, but whole-fat yogurt will yield a creamier marinade.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro works best, but if you don’t have fresh, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
Is this marinade dairy-free?
No, this marinade contains yogurt, which is dairy-based. You can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
What sides go well with this chicken?
Serve this chicken with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the bold flavors.
Can I use this marinade for a chicken salad?
Yes, the grilled chicken can be sliced and added to a salad, or used in wraps or sandwiches for a flavorful twist.

Conclusion

The Green Chicken Marinade is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your chicken dishes. The tangy yogurt base, paired with the bold spices, creates a deliciously aromatic marinade that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for making a weeknight meal or a weekend feast feel like something special. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this green chicken marinade!