Description
Enjoy a healthier take on classic BBQ ranch chicken! This recipe uses Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-packed sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken thighs (800g / 1.75lb): Choose boneless, skinless for a lean option.
- 200g (7oz) Greek yogurt: Full-fat or 2% recommended for best flavor.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) olive oil: Adds moisture and helps spices adhere.
- 2 tsp (10g) smoked paprika: Essential for authentic BBQ flavor.
- 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder: Provides consistent garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp (5g) onion powder: Adds savory depth.
- 1 tsp (2g) dried dill weed: Key component of ranch seasoning.
- 0.5 tsp (2g) black pepper: Freshly ground for subtle spice.
- 0.5 tsp (2g) sea salt: Enhances all flavors.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) BBQ sauce: Low-sugar, halal-certified preferred.
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) lemon juice: Adds bright acidity.
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar: Complements lemon juice.
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) honey (optional): Adds subtle sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp (5g) chives: For garnish and mild onion flavor.
- 1 lemon wedge (30g / 1oz): For visual appeal and citrus flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: Whisk together yogurt, oil, lemon juice, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, pepper, salt, BBQ sauce, and honey (if using).
- Marinate Chicken: Pat chicken dry, coat with marinade, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange chicken skin-side up and bake for 20 minutes.
- Glaze & Finish: Brush with remaining BBQ sauce and bake for 5-8 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
- Rest & Slice: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing diagonally.
- Plate & Garnish: Plate slices, drizzle with pan juices and BBQ sauce, and garnish with chives and a lemon wedge.
Notes
Patting the chicken dry before marinating helps it brown better. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Poultry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: chicken, bbq, ranch, healthy, greek yogurt, dinner, easy, weeknight