Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is a vibrant dish that transports you to the bustling streets of Beirut with just one bite. This delightful recipe takes about 1 hour to prepare and marinate, and the combination of zesty lemon and fragrant garlic ensures a flavorful experience that will please your taste buds.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress at a dinner party or simply enjoy a delicious homemade meal. Prepare it for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, and for best results, marinate the chicken a day ahead for even deeper flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken is marinated to infuse a bold and zesty flavor.
- Grilling creates a beautiful char, enhancing the overall taste.
- The yogurt sauce adds a creamy, cool contrast to the warm chicken.
- Easy to store and reheat, making it a great meal prep option.
What You’ll Need
Get ready to craft a delectable dish with these ingredients.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 500g chicken tenderloin, cut into 4cm / 1.5" squares
- 4 tbsp Greek or plain yogurt
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp garlic, finely grated or crushed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cooking salt
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Greek or plain yogurt
- 3/4 tsp garlic, finely grated or crushed
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp tahini or extra 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp+ water
- 1 tsp cooking salt
For Serving
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp parsley, roughly chopped
- Lemon wedges and extra virgin olive oil, for garnish
- Lebanese bread for sauce mopping
Use low-fat yogurt for a healthier option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast can replace tenderloin.
- Substitute tahini with extra olive oil if needed.
- Use lime juice for a citrus twist.
- Greek yogurt can be swapped for plain yogurt.
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious dish.
Combine the Marinade
Mix chicken with lemon garlic marinade ingredients in a bowl and coat thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
Mix all yogurt sauce ingredients together in a separate bowl. Adjust the consistency with water as needed for a smooth sauce.
Grill the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve
Plate the grilled chicken alongside the yogurt sauce, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and Lebanese bread for mopping up the delectable sauce.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, this dish is best fresh.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill pan to achieve a good char.
- Serve the dish immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
- Adjust the garlic levels in the sauce to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh tabbouleh salad for a complete meal.
- Serve at a picnic with some pita and olives.
- Enjoy as part of a Middle Eastern-themed dinner party.
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