Ingredients
For the Yogurt Marinade
- 1 1/2 cups plain whole milk yogurt
- 2 lemons, one zested and both juiced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 10 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried mint
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon sweet Spanish paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch kosher salt
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (3 1/2 to 4 pounds), divided into pieces
- Pinch kosher salt
- Extra virgin olive oil, for greasing baking sheet
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a large bowl with a lid, combine the yogurt, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, nutmeg, black pepper, and a small pinch of kosher salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend all the ingredients into a smooth marinade.
- Season and marinate the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with kosher salt, especially beneath the skin to maximize flavor. Place the chicken pieces into the bowl with the yogurt marinade. Carefully lift the skin and spread the marinade under the skin to thoroughly coat the chicken. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the middle. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Shake or scrape off excess marinade from each chicken piece and arrange them spaced apart on the baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden brown color. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature in the breast or thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Shop this recipe: Visit specialty stores for quality Mediterranean ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, oregano, cumin, coriander, and paprika to enhance authenticity.
- Marinating time flexibility: Overnight marinating is recommended for best flavor and tenderness, but the chicken can be marinated for as little as 30-45 minutes if needed, though the flavor intensity will be less.
- Chicken prep option: You can buy a whole cut-up chicken or ask your butcher to cut it for you if you prefer not to do it at home.
- Keep the chicken refrigerated at all times during marination to ensure food safety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Entree/Poultry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
