Spicy Yogurt Chicken Thighs with Creamy Dill Feta (Print Version)
Spicy yogurt chicken thighs are marinated for tender, flavorful results. Topped with a cool, creamy dill feta sauce, this dish is a weeknight winner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Mediterranean
# Ingredients:
→ Spiced Yogurt Marinade
01 -
1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt, divided
02 -
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
03 -
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, divided
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
06 -
1/2 tsp ground cumin
07 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
10 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
11 -
1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
→ Cooling Dill Feta Cream
12 -
4 oz crumbled feta cheese
13 -
1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
→ Fresh Accents
14 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
15 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
02 -
Add 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to ensure each thigh is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours, for truly flavorful Spicy Yogurt Chicken Thighs with Dill Feta Cream.
03 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Heat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works well) over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
04 -
Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place chicken thighs in the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and slightly charred.
05 -
Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven. Continue cooking your Spicy Yogurt Chicken Thighs with Dill Feta Cream for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
06 -
While the chicken bakes, prepare the cooling topping. In a small bowl, combine 4 oz crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped. Mix gently until the dill is evenly distributed throughout the feta.
07 -
Serve these delicious Spicy Yogurt Chicken Thighs with Dill Feta Cream warm. Top each chicken thigh generously with the dill feta mixture. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, and an optional 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for extra heat.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the yogurt and spices to tenderize the meat beautifully.
02 -
Serve these chicken thighs with a side of fluffy couscous, warm pita bread, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad to complete the meal.
03 -
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
04 -
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level; omit for a milder dish or add more for an extra kick. Fresh mint can also be added to the feta for another layer of freshness.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Baking sheet
02 -
Large mixing bowl
03 -
Small mixing bowl
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Tongs
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 509 kcal
Total Fat: 36 g
Total Carbohydrate: 5 g
Protein: 49 g