Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
A tender, juicy chicken dish marinated in Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices, perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total) Pound to even thickness for even cooking.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt Keeps the chicken moist; use sour cream for a tangier option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Or use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds delicious aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For a gentle warmth; use sweet paprika if you prefer milder notes.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the dish; swap with apple cider vinegar if needed.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano Fresh herbs are lovely if you have them.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Optional, for finishing and extra silkiness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them between two sheets of parchment. Gently pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness.
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and coat each piece in the yogurt mixture. Let it rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
Cooking
- Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sear each breast for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Dot the breasts with small pieces of butter and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, swap Greek yogurt for full-fat coconut yogurt and omit butter. If you need lower sodium, reduce salt and add more lemon juice and herbs. For a creamier finish, stir cream cheese into the marinade. Explore variations like adding fresh herbs or spices.