Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt recipe is a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breasts coated in a creamy garlic yogurt sauce
- A perfect balance of flavors that is both savory and refreshing
- Quick and easy to make, ideal for weeknight dinners
A Healthy Choice for Every Occasion
Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt is not just a dish; it's a celebration of healthy eating! The chicken breasts are lean, packed with protein, and low in fat, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. This dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering, ensuring you can impress your guests without compromising on health.
The garlic yogurt sauce adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. Greek yogurt is known for its probiotic benefits, promoting gut health while keeping the dish light. Using fresh ingredients elevates the taste and nutritional value, making this recipe a wholesome option for families.
Flavor That Stands Out
What sets this Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt apart is the balance of savory and refreshing flavors. The seasoning blend with paprika provides a slight smokiness, while the garlic yogurt sauce delivers a zesty kick. This combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also leaves you feeling satisfied without being overly full.
The use of fresh parsley in the sauce brings a touch of brightness, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor profile of the dish. This recipe encourages creativity—feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize it further!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Coat the chicken breasts with this mixture.
Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken is baking, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the chicken with a generous dollop of garlic yogurt sauce on top.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and tender, it’s essential to avoid overcooking them. Using a meat thermometer can help; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
If you have time, marinating the chicken in the olive oil and seasoning mixture for a couple of hours can enhance the flavor even further. This simple step makes a noticeable difference, infusing the chicken with delicious seasoning throughout.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal. The creaminess of the garlic yogurt sauce also works well as a dip for pita bread or fresh veggies, making leftovers a delightful snack option.
For a more substantial meal, you can serve the chicken over a bed of rice or couscous. The yogurt sauce can double as a dressing, adding a tangy note that complements the grains perfectly.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep well for up to three days, while the garlic yogurt sauce can last up to a week, making it a versatile option for meal prep.
When reheating, avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Instead, warm it in a preheated oven at a low temperature until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and ensures a satisfying meal every time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may require a little longer to cook.
→ Can I make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.
Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt
This Chicken Breast with Garlic Yogurt recipe is a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Coat the chicken breasts with this mixture.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
While the chicken is baking, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the chicken with a generous dollop of garlic yogurt sauce on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 40g