Spicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken with Dill Feta Cream & Crispy Baby Potatoes: A Flavorful Mediterranean-Inspired Meal

This Spicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken with Dill Feta Cream & Crispy Baby Potatoes is a perfect combination of bold Mediterranean flavors and comforting textures. The chicken is marinated in a zesty yogurt mixture with paprika, chili, garlic, and lemon, which keeps it tender and juicy. The creamy dill feta sauce adds a tangy, savory richness that pairs beautifully with the lightly spiced chicken. Crispy roasted baby potatoes round out the dish, offering a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy and spicy elements. This meal is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or entertaining guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Hatch-inspired spices bring warmth and subtle heat, while yogurt in the marinade tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. Fresh dill and lemon in the feta cream provide brightness, making every bite refreshing yet indulgent. This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted to suit your preferred protein, spice level, or side variations.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts
¾ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Dill Feta Cream

¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles or capers (optional)

For the Crispy Baby Potatoes

1 ½ pounds baby potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the chicken marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, chili powder, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to four hours, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate and tenderize the meat.

While the chicken marinates, prepare the dill feta cream. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped dill, and optional pickles or capers. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice as desired. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for the baby potatoes. Wash and halve the baby potatoes, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Cook the marinated chicken using your preferred method. For oven cooking, preheat to 400°F (200°C), place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For stovetop cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil and cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked. For grilling, preheat to medium-high and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until the chicken is charred slightly and cooked through.

Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked, plate the dish by arranging the roasted baby potatoes on each plate, topping with the spiced chicken, and drizzling with dill feta cream. Garnish with additional fresh dill or pickle slices if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Expert Tips

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use thin-skinned baby potatoes for even roasting and crispiness. If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Prepare the dill feta cream ahead of time for convenience. Adjust spice levels by increasing chili powder or adding red pepper flakes for more heat. Serve immediately to maintain crispiness of the roasted potatoes.

Variations

Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for additional color and nutrition. Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or turkey cutlets for variety. Use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a lighter marinade and sauce. For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and feta cream with roasted cauliflower or green beans instead of potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, warm pita bread, or roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a complete meal. Chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy feta and spiced chicken beautifully. Leftover roasted potatoes can be repurposed for breakfast hash or added to grain salads for lunches.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover chicken, potatoes, and dill feta cream separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat chicken in the oven or skillet, and warm potatoes in a skillet to maintain crispness. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to two months, but it’s best to prepare the feta cream fresh upon serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, just monitor cooking time to prevent drying.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking? Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky depth and works well with the yogurt marinade.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, marinate the chicken and prepare the dill feta cream a day ahead, then roast potatoes and cook chicken just before serving.

How spicy is this dish? Mild to medium. Increase chili powder or add red pepper flakes for more heat.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? Yes, but Greek yogurt produces a thicker marinade and cream sauce. Adjust consistency if needed.

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Conclusion

Spicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken with Dill Feta Cream & Crispy Baby Potatoes is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines tender, spiced chicken with a tangy, creamy feta sauce and perfectly roasted potatoes. Its balance of bold flavors and contrasting textures makes it both comforting and impressive. This dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The creamy sauce, crisp potatoes, and juicy chicken ensure every bite is satisfying and memorable.