Cumin Garlic Chicken with a Yogurt Marinade features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated overnight in a flavorful blend of yogurt, cumin, garlic, and spices, then roasted to golden, crispy perfection. It is a wholesome meal when paired with rice and vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cumin Garlic Chicken recipe is simple yet full of bold, aromatic flavors. The yogurt marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also locks in moisture, resulting in exceptionally juicy and flavorful meat. Roasting the chicken ensures a crispy skin and a fuss-free preparation, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend meal prepping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- On the day before cooking, marinate the chicken thighs with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and parchment paper.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken roasts, prepare rice and steam or sauté your choice of vegetables.
- Assemble plates with rice, vegetables, and a piece of roasted chicken thigh.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating)
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for extra heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for added freshness.
- Different Cuts: Substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or bone-in chicken breasts, adjusting the roasting time as needed.
- Grilled Version: Cook the marinated chicken on a grill for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Yogurt Sauce: Serve with a simple yogurt and cucumber sauce on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions briefly. Reheating in the oven is preferred to help retain the crispy texture of the skin.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster and could be slightly less juicy compared to thighs.
Do I have to marinate overnight?
Marinating overnight is ideal for flavor development, but even 2–3 hours will still yield delicious results.
What type of yogurt should I use?
Plain, unsweetened yogurt is best; either full-fat or low-fat can be used depending on preference.
Can I bake the chicken without the skin?
Yes, but the skin helps keep the chicken moist and adds crispiness when roasted.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and simply roast when ready.
What side dishes pair best with this chicken?
Rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh green salad complement this dish beautifully.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before roasting.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, or a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra depth of flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely; the chicken reheats well and pairs easily with various sides for balanced meal prep containers.
Conclusion
Cumin Garlic Chicken with a Yogurt Marinade offers a simple, flavorful solution for delicious and satisfying meals. The aromatic spices, tender meat, and crispy finish make it a reliable choice for family dinners, meal prepping, or hosting guests. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
PrintCumin Garlic Chicken with a Yogurt Marinade
This Cumin Garlic Chicken with a Yogurt Marinade delivers tender, juicy chicken thighs bursting with flavor, thanks to a simple marinade of yogurt, cumin, and garlic, then roasted to crispy golden perfection — an easy and wholesome dinner idea.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Roasting, Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired, Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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8 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
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1 tablespoon plain yogurt
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2 teaspoons lemon juice
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1 tablespoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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On the day before cooking, marinate the chicken thighs with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with foil and parchment paper.
-
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
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Roast for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.
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While the chicken roasts, prepare rice and steam or sauté your choice of vegetables.
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Assemble plates with rice, vegetables, and a piece of roasted chicken thigh.
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Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
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Marinating overnight allows the flavors to deeply infuse into the chicken.
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Use Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade if preferred.
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For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of roasting.
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Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, bright finish.