Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, the invigorating aroma of garlic and lemon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Lebanese market. My heart was set on recreating a dish from Al Aseel that has captured my taste buds: Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. This delightful chicken recipe features a dreamy yogurt marinade that keeps the meat tender and succulent, all while boasting a tangy, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. With quick prep and minimal effort, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave rich flavor without the fuss. Did I mention it’s gluten-free? Join me on this culinary adventure, and let’s make your next dinner a memorable one! Why is this Lebanese Chicken Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity makes this recipe accessible for everyone—from novice cooks to seasoned chefs—allowing you to whip up a delicious meal with ease. Unforgettable flavor comes from the perfect balance of lemon, garlic, and creamy yogurt, leaving your taste buds craving more. Time-saving features like quick marination and easy prep mean you’ll have more time to relax after dinner. Endless versatility allows you to pair this dish with fresh sides like Fattoush salad or rice pilaf for a complete meal. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed; this dish will impress family and friends alike at your next gathering! Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Ingredients • Discover the key ingredients that make this dish a standout! For the Chicken Chicken Tenderloin – The main protein, providing juiciness and tenderness. Substitution Note: Chicken breast can be used instead; thighs work but offer a different texture. For the Marinade Yogurt (Greek or Plain, Full-fat) – Essential for marination, enhancing flavor absorption and moisture. Tip: Avoid low-fat yogurt for a better texture. Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to the marinade and sauce, enhancing flavor and tenderness. Use fresh lemons for the best results. Garlic – Key flavor component; finely grated for proper integration. Caution: Measure carefully—too much can overpower the dish. Olive Oil – Provides richness to the marinade and improves searing capability. Opt for extra virgin for enhanced flavor. Salt – Necessary for seasoning and improving flavor absorption. Note: Follow the recipe’s specific amounts—don’t reduce excessively. For the Sauce Tahini – Contributes creaminess and richness without overwhelming flavors. Substitute with extra olive oil if unavailable. Now that you have all the essential ingredients, you’re ready to dive into creating this delectable Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Al Aseel Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, olive oil, and salt to create a flavorful marinade for the Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Add the chicken tenderloin, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours, allowing the chicken to absorb the vibrant flavors. Step 2: Prepare Sauce While the chicken is marinating, prepare the creamy yogurt sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the yogurt, tahini, and any remaining garlic and lemon juice. Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors, creating a rich accompaniment for your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Step 3: Cook Chicken When ready to cook, remove the chicken tenderloin from the marinade and gently shake off any excess. Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken in the skillet, cooking in batches for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Step 4: Warm Sauce As the chicken rests after cooking, it’s time to warm the yogurt sauce. Microwave the bowl of sauce for about 40 seconds until it’s warm but not bubbling. Remove from the microwave and whisk until smooth, ensuring a velvety texture that’s perfect for drizzling over your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Step 5: Serve To serve, spread half of the warm yogurt sauce on a large plate. Arrange the juicy golden chicken tenderloins on top and drizzle the remaining sauce over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. Serve with Lebanese bread for scooping and enjoy a beautiful, flavorful dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse and keep the chicken tender. Simply combine all marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the creamy yogurt sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store it in the fridge for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the marinated chicken in batches and warm the sauce for a quick finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal last-minute effort while keeping everything just as delectable! Expert Tips for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Marination Time: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 12 hours. Longer marination enhances flavor and tenderness, transforming your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken into a succulent delight. Searing Technique: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking. Cook in batches to ensure perfect browning instead of steaming, which can lead to dry chicken. Yogurt Choice: Always use full-fat yogurt for best results. Low-fat versions can alter the texture of the marinade and sauce, leaving you with less creamy results. Garlic Balance: When adding garlic, measure carefully. Too much can overpower the dish; stick to the recommended amount for that perfect balance of flavor. Serving Temperature: Warm the sauce just until it’s gentle to the touch; don’t let it bubble. This ensures a smooth texture that clings beautifully to your chicken. Garnishing: Always finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil. Not only does this add flavor, but it also enhances the dish’s visual appeal, making your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken irresistible. Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Variations Let your creativity shine and personalize this dish to suit your taste! Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken tenderloin with thighs for a richer, juicier flavor. Their slightly higher fat content brings a wonderful depth that elevates this classic dish. Zesty Twist: Add a sprinkle of sumac to the marinade for a tangy, citrusy kick that beautifully complements the lemon. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro with the marinade. Their bright flavors will elevate the dish, adding freshness to each bite. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the marinade. This will create an exciting contrast with the creamy yogurt sauce. Dairy-Free Option: Replace yogurt with coconut yogurt for a delicious, creamy dairy-free variant. This swap keeps the sauce rich while accommodating those with lactose intolerance. Layered Toppings: Serve your chicken with a topping of crunchy toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for extra texture and nutty flavor. This adds lovely crunch to the silky sauce. Grilled Version: For a smoky twist, grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-searing. The char from the grill enhances the flavors beautifully and adds a delightful smoky character. Alternative Side Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa for a wholesome twist. This complements the creamy sauce while adding both flavor and nutrition. Remember to savor the experience of cooking, and don’t hesitate to experiment! Pair it with a refreshing Fattoush salad or aromatic rice pilaf to truly embrace the Lebanese culinary delights. What to Serve with Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken A delicious meal begins with perfect pairings that enhance the bold flavors of your cooking. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture complements the tangy yogurt sauce, making each bite a comforting delight. Fattoush Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and crispy pita adds crunch and acidity, perfectly balancing the richness of the chicken. Spiced Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with warm spices creates a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken, inviting wonderful flavors to dance together. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies offer a smoky flavor that enhances the dish while adding a vibrant, colorful presence to your plate. Hummus with Pita: A classic combination that invites guests to enjoy dipping while the creamy texture seamlessly matches the yogurt sauce. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, yogurt-based dip provides a refreshing contrast that works beautifully with the bold lemon and garlic flavors. Minty Lemonade: Adding a sweet and zesty drink creates a vibrant experience that refreshes the palate after each savory bite. Baklava: End the meal on a sweet note with this nutty dessert, offering a sweet contrast to the dish’s savory, tangy profile. Iced Arabic Coffee: A perfect after-dinner drink that balances the meal and leaves you with a warm feeling of comfort and satisfaction. How to Store and Freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave until warmed through. Consider warming the sauce separately for an added creamy touch. Prepared Sauce: The yogurt sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring you savor its rich flavors long after your initial meal. Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting chicken for this dish? Absolutely! When choosing chicken tenderloin, look for pieces that are pink and plump without any dark spots or visible signs of freezer burn. Fresh chicken should have a neutral scent; avoid any that has a strong or unpleasant odor. If tenderloin isn’t available, you can absolutely use chicken breasts or thighs as alternatives, keeping in mind that thighs will provide a richer flavor and slightly different texture. How should I store leftover Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken? To keep your leftover Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Don’t forget – you can also keep the yogurt sauce separately for a fresher taste! Can I freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken? Yes! To freeze your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container without the sauce to prevent sogginess. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave—but remember to warm the sauce separately for that creamy finish! What if I have garlic allergies or want a milder flavor? Very good question! If you’re looking for a garlic-free option, you can replace garlic with a pinch of garlic powder for a hint of flavor without the intensity. You might also consider incorporating other herbs like thyme or rosemary, which add delicious depth without being overpowering. Always check ingredient labels when you’re using what’s on hand to avoid allergens! How do I know if my yogurt is good for the marinade? It’s important to use full-fat yogurt for the best results in your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. When selecting yogurt, check for an expiration date on the container. Good yogurt should be thick and creamy without any separation or off smells. If your yogurt has a strange odor or dark spots, it’s best to discard it and get a fresh one. Using fresh yogurt not only enhances the marinade but also ensures the creamy sauce has a wonderful texture! How long can I marinate the chicken for? I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 12 hours for optimal flavor and tenderness. If you have time to spare, you can marinate for up to 24 hours, which deepens the flavor significantly. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator for safety. The longer marination allows those lovely yogurt, garlic, and lemon flavors to seep into the chicken, making each bite a succulent delight! Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Al Aseel Inspired Delight No ratings yet Experience the irresistible flavors of Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Al Aseel, with a creamy yogurt marinade and tangy sauce, perfect for any dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsMarination Time 12 hours hrsTotal Time 12 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: LebaneseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Tenderloin Substitution Note: Chicken breast can be used instead; thighs work but offer a different texture.For the Marinade1 cup Yogurt (Greek or Plain, Full-fat) Tip: Avoid low-fat yogurt for a better texture.1/4 cup Lemon Juice Use fresh lemons for the best results.4 cloves Garlic Caution: Measure carefully—too much can overpower the dish.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Opt for extra virgin for enhanced flavor.1 teaspoon Salt Note: Follow the recipe’s specific amounts—don’t reduce excessively.For the Sauce1/4 cup Tahini Substitute with extra olive oil if unavailable. Equipment Mixing BowlSkilletMicrowavemeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Marinating and CookingIn a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, olive oil, and salt to create a flavorful marinade for the Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Add the chicken tenderloin, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours, allowing the chicken to absorb the vibrant flavors.While the chicken is marinating, prepare the creamy yogurt sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the yogurt, tahini, and any remaining garlic and lemon juice. Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors, creating a rich accompaniment for your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken.When ready to cook, remove the chicken tenderloin from the marinade and gently shake off any excess. Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken in the skillet, cooking in batches for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.As the chicken rests after cooking, it's time to warm the yogurt sauce. Microwave the bowl of sauce for about 40 seconds until it's warm but not bubbling. Remove from the microwave and whisk until smooth, ensuring a velvety texture that's perfect for drizzling over your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken.To serve, spread half of the warm yogurt sauce on a large plate. Arrange the juicy golden chicken tenderloins on top and drizzle the remaining sauce over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. Serve with Lebanese bread for scooping and enjoy a beautiful, flavorful dining experience. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow chicken to marinate for at least 12 hours for best results. Always use full-fat yogurt for the best texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure perfect browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
