If you are craving a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that bursts with bright citrus and aromatic spices, then you are in for a treat with this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe. This recipe perfectly balances the zing of fresh lemon juice with the robust punch of garlic and warm Middle Eastern spices, creating a tender, juicy chicken dish that feels both homey and exotic. Whether you grill or bake it, the fragrant marinade seeps into every bite, making this chicken a guaranteed star at any dinner table or casual gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, and aroma without overwhelming the palate. Let’s take a look at the essential components that make this dish so special.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs offer extra juiciness, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Provides a silky base for the marinade and helps the chicken retain moisture.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds vibrant acidity and brightness essential for that classic Lebanese flavor.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic injects bold, aromatic depth into every bite.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note that complements the citrus perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle, citrusy undertone that makes the flavor pop.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric: Offers a golden hue and mild bitterness to balance the lemon’s tartness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Imparts a gentle smokiness and rich color.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat to awaken the senses.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Sprinkles of fresh parsley lighten the dish with vibrant color and herbaceous freshness.
How to Make Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl or resealable bag. This marinade is the heart of your dish—it infuses every piece of chicken with those incredible Middle Eastern flavors, so make sure to mix everything thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour, but for that deep, authentic flavor that fills the kitchen and your plate, letting it marinate overnight is the real magic.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Oven
Get your grill or oven ready by heating it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful char or golden brown color without drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
If grilling, place the chicken over medium-high heat and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You want that lovely sear that locks in juices, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you prefer to bake, arrange the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop it in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until perfectly cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley—it adds a pop of color and brightness that’s difficult to resist.
How to Serve Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice for garnishing this dish, offering a lovely burst of green and a fresh herbal lift to the rich, lemony chicken. You can also add thin lemon slices or wedges for an extra citrus sparkle and a touch of elegance on the plate.
Side Dishes
Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the flavorful juices. Serve it alongside fluffy rice pilaf, creamy garlic hummus, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Crunchy fattoush salad or warm pita bread make the meal feel complete and authentically Lebanese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the chicken thinly and arrange it over a bed of lightly seasoned couscous or quinoa, drizzling extra marinade as a dressing. Another fun idea is to stuff pitas with the sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of garlic-yogurt sauce for a delightful handheld feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper storage keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, ready for a quick meal or snack.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, slice the chicken first for easier portioning and faster thawing, which helps maintain texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating, keeping it juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well in this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe, though they tend to cook a bit faster and are leaner, so keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe without grilling?
Yes, baking the chicken in the oven is an excellent alternative. Baking ensures even cooking and helps keep the chicken juicy when you don’t have access to a grill.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! The marinade can be mixed in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to marinate and cook.
What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice?
If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, though fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor essential to the recipe.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
No, cayenne pepper is optional and simply adds a touch of heat. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder dish or adjust the quantity to your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something quick, flavorful, and irresistibly tender. Its bright, zesty marinade paired with warm spices brings the flavors of Lebanon right into your kitchen, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Give it a try—you might find it becoming a new favorite in your rotation just like it did for me!
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Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including 1 hour marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, and warm spices. Perfectly grilled or baked to achieve a flavorful and aromatic dish, it’s a quick and healthy meal that brings Middle Eastern flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat Cooking Equipment: Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: If grilling, place the chicken on the grill over medium-high heat and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor significantly but marinating for at least 1 hour provides good results.
- You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference; thighs provide juicier, more flavorful meat.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the cayenne pepper.
- The chicken can be served with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure safe cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (baking) or 10-12 minutes (grilling)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
