Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken marinated in tangy yogurt and sumac, grilled to perfection and served with a creamy garlic sauce for a vibrant Middle Eastern flavor. This middle eastern-inspired chicken ready in about 30 minutes blends pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, plain Greek yogurt, tablespoons sumac spice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 360 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Middle Eastern cuisine 360 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons sumac spice, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
  2. Step 2: Add 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
  3. Step 3: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
  4. Step 4: Grill chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is nicely charred and cooked through.
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare garlic sauce by whisking together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
  6. Step 6: Serve grilled chicken hot with a generous dollop of garlic sauce on the side and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Chicken Marinated in Sumac and Yogurt with Garlic Sauce?

Middle Eastern chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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