The live cultures in yogurt are able to break down the proteins in chicken, which gives juicy, tender results. If you are looking for a way to make moist, succulent and delicious chicken, try soaking your poultry in this mint yogurt chicken marinade and prepare to be amazed at the results.
Give the chicken at least eight hours so the yogurt can work its magic, and not only will it be really tasty but the texture will be soft and tender too, giving you an all-round great chicken feast. Serve this excellent recipe with potato salad or bread, and maybe a simple salad on the side to showcase the grilled bird.
This recipe provides cooking tips for gas grill users and charcoal grill users, so you can take your pick depending which type of grill you have. Obviously your chicken will take on a smoky flavor if you use a charcoal grill, which a gas grill does not offer, but a gas grill is easier to control temperature-wise, since you just turn it up or down. Both types of grill have advantages and disadvantages. Some people even use an electric grill, and those can be used inside since there is no toxic smoke or gas involved.
Mint Yogurt Chicken Marinade with Cayenne
Summary: This yogurt-based chicken marinade is easy to make and will make your poultry taste absolutely delicious. The recipe features mint too, which offers a lovely fresh taste.
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Ingredients
- 4 whole boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- Zest of a lemon
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 3 whole minced garlic cloves
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Combine the extra-virgin olive oil, yogurt, garlic, mint leaves, lemon zest, cayenne pepper, salt, and cumin in a shallow glass dish.
Add the chicken to the yogurt marinade, turning to coat both sides.
Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinade for up to 24 hours (but at least 8) in the refrigerator.
Preheat the grill and remove the chicken from the marinade.
If you are using a charcoal grill, keep the lid open.
Spread the hot coals evenly over the grill and turn the chicken often so it does not burn.
The breasts will take about 25 minutes to achieve an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
If you are using a gas grill, you will need to close the lid, else it will not stay hot inside.
Open any vents and cook the chicken for about 22 minutes or until it is 165 degrees F in the thickest part and the juices run clear.
Turn the chicken a few times during cooking.
Further details
Enough for (Serves 4).
Preparation time is approximately 15 min
