Print

Melt In Your Mouth Chicken

Melt In Your Mouth Chicken
Print Recipe

Melt In Your Mouth Chicken is a simple and foolproof recipe that delivers irresistibly tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken. Using easy-to-find ingredients like yogurt or buttermilk to marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, this dish ensures every bite melts softly in your mouth. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, the recipe offers balanced spices, quick preparation, and versatile options to customize to any taste or dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 pounds)

Marinade

  • 1 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Additional lemon juice for drizzling

Optional Variations

  • Chili powder or cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • Rosemary or thyme (for herb infusion)
  • Coconut milk or dairy-free yogurt (for dairy-free version)
  • Smoked paprika (for smoky flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for sweet and tangy glaze)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine 1 cup yogurt or buttermilk with 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and flavorful.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Evenly coat the boneless, skinless chicken pieces with the prepared marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the acids and spices to tenderize the meat and deepen the flavor.
  3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Warm a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter. Proper heating ensures a golden sear without overcooking the chicken’s interior.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces in the pan and cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Turn only once to form a golden crust and lock in the juices.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in tender, juicy bites.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and to prevent drying.
  • Longer marination times yield more tender and flavorful chicken.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve a better sear.
  • Cook over medium heat to avoid burning and maintain moisture.
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep juices locked in.

Nutrition

Keywords: tender chicken, juicy chicken, yogurt marinated chicken, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken recipe, melt in your mouth chicken

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/melt-in-your-mouth-chicken-2/