Picture this: the inviting aroma of lemon and garlic fills the air as I prepare a dish that effortlessly transports me to the vibrant streets of Lebanon. That’s the magic of Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken, inspired by the culinary artistry of Al Aseel, that I fell in love with during my last visit. This dish is a delightful medley of succulent chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic concoction, complemented by a creamy yogurt sauce that adds a touch of indulgence without the heaviness.
What I adore about this recipe is its balance of flavors and ease of preparation—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something beyond fast food. You can whip up this flavorful meal in just 30 minutes, making it both a time-saver and a wholesome choice. With each bite, you’ll experience the richness of traditional Lebanese cooking right in your kitchen. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive in!
Why is Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken so special?
Bold flavors: This dish is a delightful explosion of bright lemon and rich garlic, perfectly balanced for a mouthwatering taste.
Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can serve an impressive meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Healthy choice: With Greek yogurt in the marinade, it’s a high-protein, low-carb option for nutritious eating.
Authentic inspiration: Drawing from the beloved Al Aseel, this recipe brings authentic Lebanese flair right to your table.
Versatile serving: Pair it with warm Lebanese bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal everyone will love!
Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Chicken Tenderloin – The main protein providing juiciness; feel free to substitute with chicken breast or thighs for a different texture.
- Greek Yogurt – Used for marinating to tenderize the chicken and create a rich sauce; opt for full-fat yogurt for the best results.
- Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and a bright flavor; freshly squeezed juice is recommended for an authentic taste.
- Garlic – Essential for the marinade, adding robust flavor; be careful with the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness; extra virgin is preferred for its flavor profile.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; kosher or cooking salt works best for a balanced seasoning.
For the Sauce
- Tahini – Optional ingredient for added creaminess; you can substitute it with extra olive oil if desired.
- More Garlic – Incorporating garlic into the sauce amplifies the flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Water – Helps achieve the right consistency for the sauce; add gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
For Garnish
- Parsley – Provides a fresh, colorful touch to the dish; mint can also be used for a different aromatic experience.
- Lebanese Bread – Perfect for serving alongside, allowing you to mop up the delicious sauce with each bite.
With these ingredients, you’re just steps away from creating your own version of the Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken, inspired by the flavors of Al Aseel!
How to Make Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken tenderloin with Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours to let the flavors infuse deeply.
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Prepare Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini (if using), and a bit of water. Let it sit for at least 1 hour; this resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Cook Chicken: Drain the marinade from the chicken. Heat a non-stick pan over high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken in batches, about 1.5-2 minutes per side, until each piece is golden brown. Remember to let the chicken rest for 2 minutes after cooking!
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Warm Sauce: Gently microwave the prepared sauce until warm, whisking to ensure a smooth consistency.
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Serve: On a serving plate, spread half of the warm sauce. Place the cooked chicken on top, drizzle with the remaining sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and a little extra olive oil for brightness.
Optional: Serve with warm Lebanese bread for a delightful meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Creamy Hummus: A must-have, its smooth texture and earthiness balance the zesty chicken, making it a perfect appetizer.
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Fattoush Salad: This fresh, crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast with its tangy sumac dressing and crisp vegetables. It brightens up every bite.
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Lebanese Rice Pilaf: Fluffy and fragrant, the rice soaks up the savory juices from the chicken, creating a comforting base for your meal. It feels like a warm hug on your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies roasted to perfection add a wonderful sweetness that harmonizes with the garlic and lemon in the dish.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, this bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, allowing you to savor every delicious drop.
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Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink cools the palate and balances the dish’s rich flavors. Its bright notes will have everyone asking for more.
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Baklava: This sweet pastry offers a delightful contrast with layers of honey and nuts. It’s the perfect way to end a meal inspired by Lebanese cuisine.
Each of these sides brings a unique taste and texture, making your dining experience not just a meal, but a joyous celebration of flavors!
Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Variations
Get creative with your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken by trying these exciting twists! Each option opens up new flavors and textures to delight your palate.
- Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or coriander to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor. The herbs will brighten the overall taste and give it a refreshing twist.
- Spice it Up: Include a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or harissa for a spicy kick. Adjust the heat level based on your preference—the bold flavors will elevate the dish to new heights!
- Mediterranean Twist: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or olives while cooking the chicken for a Mediterranean flair. This will introduce a tangy depth that’s unexpectedly delightful and pairs beautifully with the sauce.
- Coconut Yogurt: Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. The slight sweetness of coconut complements the tanginess of lemon, creating a unique balance of flavors.
- Grilled Version: Grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-frying. This method adds a smoky aroma and charred flavor that enhances the dish, making it perfect for summer evenings.
- Pineapple Zing: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the sauce for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the garlic and lemon, creating a luscious, exotic taste experience.
- Honey Drizzle: Finish the dish with a drizzle of honey just before serving. This sweet addition will contrast beautifully with the tangy sauce, adding an extra layer of complexity.
- Nutty Texture: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top as a garnish for crunch. This extra texture perfectly complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Explore these variations to make every meal special and satisfy your family’s cravings for homemade goodness!
How to Store and Freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them separate for best texture upon reheating.
Freezer: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The sauce can be gently reheated in the microwave, whisking to restore its creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken for up to 48 hours in advance, and prepare the sauce a day prior to serving for convenient meal prep with your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring maximum tenderness. Simply combine the chicken tenderloin with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt, then refrigerate. The sauce can also be prepared a day ahead; just mix the ingredients and store it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, follow the cooking instructions for the chicken, warm the sauce gently, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken
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Perfect Marinade Time:: Aim for a minimum of 3 hours, but 12-24 hours is ideal for infusing deep flavor into the chicken.
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Use Fresh Ingredients:: Always opt for fresh lemons and garlic, as these elevate the dish’s bright flavors more than store-bought alternatives.
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Avoid Overcrowding:: Cook the chicken in batches to prevent steaming; this ensures each piece achieves a beautiful golden brown sear.
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Gentle Sauce Heating:: Warm the sauce gradually in the microwave instead of boiling to preserve the creamy texture and prevent separation.
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Mind the Garlic:: While garlic is essential for this Lebanese chicken, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken tenderloin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenderloin that is plump, moist, and has a light pink color. Avoid any that show signs of discoloration, such as dark spots or an off-putting smell, as these are indicators of spoilage. The fresher the chicken, the more tender and juicy your dish will be!
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Can I store leftover Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken, and how long will it last?
Certainly! Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them separate to maintain the texture of the chicken and sauce when reheating. If you’d like to keep it longer, store the chicken without sauce for best results.
How do I freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Definitely! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking it. Place the chicken in a resealable freezer bag, ensuring all excess air is removed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and it will be ready to cook the next day!
What should I do if the chicken is dry after cooking?
If you find that your chicken is a bit dry, there are a couple of things you can do. First, ensure you’re not overcooking the chicken; aim for only 1.5-2 minutes per side on high heat. If you’ve already cooked it, you can slice the chicken and drizzle it with some additional warm yogurt sauce, which will provide extra moisture and richness.
Are there any dietary considerations to be aware of with this recipe?
Very! Since this dish contains Greek yogurt, it’s a high-protein, low-carb option that can fit into many dietary choices. If anyone has a dairy allergy, you could substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, although it might alter the creamy texture slightly. Additionally, be cautious of anyone allergic to garlic, as this is a key ingredient in both the marinade and sauce.
Savory Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Inspired by Al Aseel
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken tenderloin with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
- Prepare Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini (if using), and a bit of water. Let it sit for at least 1 hour.
- Cook Chicken: Drain the marinade. Heat a non-stick pan with olive oil and cook the chicken in batches for 1.5-2 minutes per side.
- Warm Sauce: Gently microwave the prepared sauce until warm, whisking to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Serve: Spread half of the warm sauce on a plate, place the cooked chicken on top, drizzle with remaining sauce, and garnish with parsley.