Chicken breasts can often be tricky to cook. They’re lean and low in fat, which means they can easily become dry and tough if overcooked. But with the right marinade, you can ensure your chicken breasts stay juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time. This 2-ingredient marinade is incredibly simple to prepare and guarantees moist chicken every time.
The Magic of the 2-Ingredient Marinade
The key to this marinade lies in two basic ingredients: Greek yogurt and lemon juice. The combination of these two elements creates a marinade that not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, locking in moisture as it cooks. Here’s why they work so well:
- Greek Yogurt:
Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, and it contains lactic acid, which helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender. The yogurt also helps to form a protective coating around the chicken that traps moisture, preventing it from drying out during cooking. - Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice provides acidity, which helps balance the richness of the yogurt while also helping to tenderize the chicken. The tangy flavor of lemon adds brightness and depth to the dish, complementing the yogurt perfectly.
How to Make the Marinade
Making this marinade is as easy as it gets! Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 240g of Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (about one lemon)
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Stir until well blended. You can add a pinch of salt or pepper for extra flavor, but it’s optional. - Marinate the Chicken:
Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the yogurt and lemon mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—though for best results, let it marinate for 2 to 4 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. - Cook the Chicken:
Once marinated, cook the chicken as desired—grill, bake, pan-sear, or air-fry. No matter how you cook it, the marinade will keep the chicken moist and juicy. Aim for an internal temperature of 75°C to ensure it’s fully cooked without drying out.
Why This Works Every Time
This marinade does double duty: it both flavors and tenderizes the chicken, preventing it from becoming dry. The yogurt not only locks in moisture but also forms a slight crust when cooked, giving the chicken a nice texture on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Meanwhile, the lemon juice keeps things fresh and light, balancing out the richness of the yogurt.
Extra Tips for Perfect Chicken Breasts:
- Don’t Overcook: Always cook chicken breasts to the proper internal temperature (75°C). Overcooking is the main culprit behind dry chicken.
- Rest After Cooking: Allow your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
This 2-ingredient marinade is a game-changer for anyone who loves juicy, flavorful chicken but doesn’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can enjoy chicken breasts that are consistently tender and moist, making every meal a success!
