If you’ve ever been craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is exactly what you need. This chicken recipe combines the tangy zest of fresh lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the earthy flavors of Mediterranean spices to create a dish that’s mouthwateringly good. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, with a zesty marinade that perfectly balances the rich flavors. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to savor every single bite. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, the result is always the same: a dish that’s vibrant, aromatic, and downright irresistible.

Trust me, this recipe is one of those meals that will have your kitchen smelling amazing and your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a flavorful experience. Here’s why it’s such a winner:

Versatile: Perfect for dinner, a family gathering, or even a special occasion. You can serve it with a variety of sides like rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, but the flavor payoff is huge. You don’t have to spend a lot to make something absolutely delicious.

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a bit of marinating time, this recipe is incredibly straightforward to make.

Customizable: Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also switch up the herbs to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a hit with everyone. The combination of lemon and garlic is universally loved and will make you look like a culinary genius!

Ingredients in Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

This Lebanese-inspired chicken dish is all about big flavors, and the ingredients do all the talking. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe, as they stay juicy and tender during cooking. You can also use boneless chicken if you prefer.

Garlic: Loads of fresh garlic cloves give this dish that signature punch of flavor.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness and tang to the dish, cutting through the richness of the chicken.

Olive Oil: For that silky marinade and a hint of Mediterranean goodness.

Dried Oregano: A classic herb in Lebanese cooking, oregano adds a fragrant, earthy touch.

Paprika: For a little warmth and a lovely color.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors and seasoning the chicken perfectly.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful Lebanese classic:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. Add the chicken thighs and toss them in the marinade until they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have the time, as it helps to intensify the flavors.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop pan. If you’re grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. For the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C). If you’re cooking on the stove, heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the Chicken

Grill the chicken for about 6–8 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through, or bake in the oven for 35–40 minutes, depending on the thickness of the thighs. If cooking on the stovetop, cook for about 7–10 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice, crispy skin.

Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices locked in. Serve with your favorite sides like rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tabbouleh salad.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
(Note: approximate values)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal:

– Serve it with a side of fluffy couscous or rice pilaf for a hearty meal.
– Pair it with a refreshing salad like tabbouleh or fattoush to balance out the richness of the chicken.
– A side of hummus and pita bread always complements this dish beautifully.
– For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve it with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you have time, marinate it overnight!
– You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer, though the bone-in variety offers more flavor and juiciness.
– If you like extra garlic, you can add more minced garlic to the marinade or even rub some on the chicken before cooking.
– For a bit of heat, add chili flakes to the marinade or drizzle with a little hot sauce just before serving.
– This recipe works beautifully with chicken breasts, but they may cook a little faster than thighs, so keep an eye on them.
– If you want to add even more lemon flavor, garnish the chicken with extra lemon wedges before serving.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts will cook faster than thighs.

2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight will allow the flavors to really soak in, making the chicken even more flavorful.

3. Can I use a different herb instead of oregano?
Yes! Thyme, rosemary, or a mix of Mediterranean herbs would work wonderfully in this recipe.

4. Can I cook this chicken in the oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
The chicken can be marinated ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just cook it when you’re ready to serve!

6. What should I serve with Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with couscous, rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.

7. Can I grill the chicken on a BBQ?
Yes, grilling it on a BBQ will add an extra layer of smoky flavor, which is fantastic with this recipe.

8. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add some chili flakes to the marinade or drizzle with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.

9. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon).

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), or when the juices run clear.

Conclusion

Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish when you want something full of flavor, easy to make, and sure to impress. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and Mediterranean spices creates a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this recipe guarantees tender, juicy chicken that everyone will love. So go ahead whip up this dish and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen!

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