Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Recipe, A Lebanese Delight For Your Weekly Dinner Routine

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. One standout dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Lebanese cooking is Garlic Lemon Chicken.

This dish, also known as "Djej b Zeit w Toum," is a tantalizing blend of succulent chicken marinated in a zesty garlic-lemon sauce, then baked or grilled to perfection.

It's a dish that is both comforting and exciting, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking to spice up your weekly dinner routine, this recipe is sure to impress.

Serves- 5-6
Prep Time- 15 mins
Cook Time- 55 mins
Total Time- 1 hour 10 mins

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces or 4-6 chicken breasts/thighs
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cooking:

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 lemons, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How To Prepare

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply.

3. When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced onions and lemons in a single layer. Place the marinated chicken pieces on top of the onions and lemons, skin-side up if using skin-on chicken.

5. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Alternatively, you can grill the marinated chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred to your liking.

7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven or grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.

8. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon slices if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.

Tips And Variations

1. Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the marinade.

2. Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Vegetable Addition: Include vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes in the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal.

4. Yogurt Marinade: For an even more tender chicken, mix in 1/4 cup of plain yogurt with the marinade. The enzymes in the yogurt help break down the proteins in the chicken.

Nutritional Values

By following this recipe, you can create a meal that is not only tasty but also nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this exquisite dish that captures the essence of Lebanese culinary tradition.