Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Best Dinner Idea

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If you’ve ever wanted to experience a dish bursting with sunshine, vibrant aromatics, and a depth of flavor that embodies Lebanese cuisine, Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is a must-try recipe. With every tender bite, this dish delivers a harmonious blend of citrusy brightness, creamy yogurt undertones, and the unmistakable boldness of fresh garlic. Whether you’re seeking a weeknight meal that dazzles or planning an impressive weekend feast, this recipe offers simple prep with remarkable results. Juicy chicken tenderloins are marinated in a tangy, aromatic yogurt-lemon mixture, seared to golden perfection, and finished with a luscious lemon garlic yogurt sauce that begs to be mopped up with warm Lebanese bread.

Perfect for those who crave both comfort and adventure in the kitchen, Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is not only flavorful but is also packed with healthy, whole ingredients. Read on to discover how you can bring a little Middle Eastern magic to your own dining table. Trust us—after one taste, you’ll want this savory, zesty chicken in your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe—it’s a Mediterranean culinary staple celebrated for its remarkable balance of flavors and effortless charm. What makes this dish so captivating is the way everyday ingredients transform into something truly extraordinary. The yogurt-based marinade breaks down the chicken, ensuring every bite is meltingly tender, while a generous sauce adds creaminess and zing, thanks to lemon and garlic.

This recipe stands out for its ability to please almost any palate. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and can be easily meal-prepped for busy weeks. Plus, the lively balance of tangy, garlicky, and herby notes pairs perfectly with countless sides, from fresh salads and pilafs to humble flatbreads. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home chef, you’ll appreciate the minimal prep and the impressive results. If you love dishes like chicken shawarma or tzatziki, Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken will become your go-to choice for flavor-packed Mediterranean meals.

Ingredients for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

Authentic Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken gets its irresistible flavor from a blend of humble yet vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare both the marinated chicken and the creamy yogurt sauce:

• 500g / 1lb chicken tenderloin (or boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into strips)
• For the lemon garlic marinade:
• 65g Greek or plain yogurt (full-fat recommended)
• 45ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely grated or crushed (about 4 large cloves)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt (or ½ tsp table salt, 1¼ tsp salt flakes)
• For the lemon garlic yogurt sauce:
• 250g Greek or plain yogurt (full fat for best creaminess)
• 0.75 teaspoon garlic, finely grated or crushed (about 1 clove)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon hulled tahini (or substitute with 1 extra tablespoon olive oil if needed)
• 1 tablespoon (or more) water, to thin out the sauce as desired
• 1 teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt (or ½ tsp table salt, 1¼ tsp salt flakes)
• For cooking and serving:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• 1 teaspoon parsley, roughly chopped (or a mix of mint and parsley)
• Lemon wedges and extra virgin olive oil (for garnish)
• Lebanese bread (essential for sauce-mopping!)

These ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, making this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken a standout for both convenience and taste. Using full-fat yogurt is crucial here for a rich, velvety finish.

Necessary Tools

To whip up Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken seamlessly, a few basic kitchen tools will set you up for success:

• Large mixing bowls (for marinating the chicken and whisking the sauce)
• Garlic press or fine grater (to achieve that essential, aromatic garlic paste)
• Measuring spoons and cups (for accuracy)
• Sharp kitchen knife and cutting board (for prepping herbs and chicken)
• Nonstick skillet or cast iron pan (for searing the chicken)
• Rubber spatula or tongs (for turning chicken and scraping every bit of marinade)
• Whisk (for emulsifying the yogurt sauce)
• Serving platter or shallow bowl (for presentation)
• Small bowl (to combine and serve the creamy yogurt sauce)

Having the right tools not only streamlines the preparation process but also ensures that each element of your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is executed perfectly, from the marinade to the golden, flavorful finish.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is wonderfully adaptable for various tastes and dietary needs. Let’s explore some customizable options:

• Chicken: While chicken tenderloin offers quick, even cooking, boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and deeper flavor. For a lighter option, use chicken breast, sliced into strips.
• Yogurt: Greek yogurt delivers that creamy, tangy base. Lactose-free or coconut yogurt alternatives can be used for dairy-free diets, but ensure they’re unsweetened and full-fat for the right consistency.
• Tahini: Although tahini adds authentic nutty depth, you can omit it and use extra virgin olive oil for a simpler yogurt sauce. Sunflower seed butter can also be a creative nut-free swap.
• Herbs: Parsley and mint are traditional garnishes, but dill or cilantro can add fresh new dimensions.
• Garlic: Love bold flavors? Feel free to adjust the garlic quantity to suit your taste.
• Serving bread: Lebanese (pita) bread is classic but naan, flatbread, or even gluten-free wraps work just as well.

These flexible substitutions allow you to tailor Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken to your personal dietary preference and what’s already in your pantry, all without losing the essence of classic Lebanese flavors.

How to Make Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken

Making Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is a breeze, though it delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The process centers on two main elements: a citrusy, garlicky chicken marinade and a luxuriously creamy lemon garlic yogurt sauce. After marinating, you’ll quickly sear the chicken until golden and juicy, then finish everything off with herbs, sauce, and a flourish of lemon. Here’s how to bring this Mediterranean favorite to life:

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Marinade

Begin by creating the marinade that will give the chicken its signature flavor. In a large bowl, mix together 65g Greek or plain yogurt, 45ml fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon grated or pressed garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, combine 250g Greek or plain yogurt, 0.75 teaspoon garlic, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon tahini. Add 1 teaspoon salt and whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Thin out the sauce with water, adding 1 tablespoon at a time until you achieve a luscious, spoonable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice or salt as desired.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

When ready to cook, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Sear the chicken tenderloins in the hot pan (work in batches if needed) for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to achieve that perfect crust. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Arrange the golden seared chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. Generously spoon the creamy lemon garlic yogurt sauce over the chicken, then scatter freshly chopped parsley (or a mint-parsley blend) on top. Serve immediately with warm Lebanese bread and extra lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is truly a feast for all the senses. For an authentically Lebanese experience, pair the chicken with warm Lebanese bread—perfect for scooping up the sauce and juices. It’s also delicious with fragrant Lebanese rice pilaf or a simple tabbouleh salad for a boost of freshness and bite.

For a generous mezze spread, add bowls of hummus, baba ghanoush, or cucumber salad. The lush, garlicky sauce also pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell pepper. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, serve the chicken sliced atop a crisp green salad, dressed with lemon and olive oil. However you serve it, don’t forget plenty of fresh herbs and extra wedges of lemon for garnishing at the table!

Pro Tips & Tricks

• Marinating time matters: For the juiciest, most flavorful chicken, aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating. If you have time, marinate the chicken up to 2 hours for maximum penetration of flavor.
• Full-fat yogurt is key: Using full-fat Greek yogurt provides unbeatable creaminess in both the marinade and the sauce, ensuring richness and authenticity.
• Searing technique: Let chicken pieces come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking—this helps achieve even browning and juicier results.
• Crispy edges: Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to work in batches. This prevents steaming and ensures every piece develops a golden crust.
• Adjust consistency: If your yogurt sauce seems too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until smooth and pourable.
• Fresh lemon juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, cleanest flavor.

These simple tricks guarantee your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken will always taste as good as it looks!

Storage Instructions

Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken stores nicely, making it great for meal prep. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the creamy yogurt sauce separately in a sealed jar or container to keep it fresh and maintain its creamy texture.

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a preheated, covered skillet over low-medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short bursts. Cold leftovers are also fantastic sliced into salads or wraps! The lemon garlic yogurt sauce keeps well for up to 3 days—just give it a quick stir before serving, and add a splash of water or lemon juice if it’s thickened in the fridge.

General Information

Lebanese cuisine is known for its freshness, vibrant ingredients, and bold yet balanced flavors, and Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is no exception. This dish draws inspiration from traditional home-style recipes found across the Levant—where the use of yogurt and citrus not only flavors but tenderizes the chicken, resulting in succulent, aromatic bites.

Often enjoyed as part of a mezze or as a main course, this chicken recipe reflects the Lebanese love for sharing meals that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The creamy yogurt sauce is reminiscent of Lebanese toum (traditional garlic sauce), but with a tangy twist. Rich in protein and probiotics, the dish is both satisfying and nourishing, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or special gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a flavorful and juicy alternative to tenderloins. Just adjust cooking time as needed—thighs may take an extra minute or two per side.

Is it possible to grill Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken?

Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, oil the grates, and cook marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through and lightly charred.

Can I prepare the marinade or sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. Both the marinade and yogurt sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge until ready to use.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes—Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken itself is gluten-free. Just ensure any bread or side dishes you serve are also gluten-free if you’re catering to sensitivities.

What can I use instead of tahini in the sauce?

You can substitute tahini with additional extra virgin olive oil for a similar creamy effect, or try a splash of almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you like a slightly nutty flavor.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Let cool, then wrap tightly and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge, then reheat gently before serving. Note: The yogurt sauce may separate if frozen, so it’s better made fresh or chilled.

Conclusion

Bringing Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken to your dinner table is an invitation to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Middle Eastern cooking. With its tangy, garlicky marinade, juicy seared chicken, and creamy lemon yogurt sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or savoring a cozy night in, the flavors and textures are guaranteed to delight.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with sides and sauces—this recipe easily adapts to suit any occasion or taste. Now that you’ve mastered this crowd-pleaser, why not invite friends and family over for an authentic Lebanese meal? Share your creations, savor every bite, and enjoy the comfort and culinary adventure that only homemade Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken can deliver!

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