Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of roasted garlic and zesty lemon often whisks me away to cozy evenings spent in charming Lebanese eateries, where the flavors dance on your palate. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the beloved Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken—an irresistible dish that captures the essence of my favorite Al Aseel restaurant right in the comfort of my home kitchen. This recipe not only delivers a delightful punch of flavor, but it’s also incredibly quick to whip up—making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress at a gathering. With a creamy yogurt sauce that’s both gluten-free and full of vibrant lemony goodness, it’s a dish sure to become a favorite at your table. Ready to transform your dining experience? Let’s dive into the details of this delicious Lebanese classic! Why is Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken a Must-Try? Juicy, Tender Chicken: The marinating process ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and moisture, giving you that restaurant-quality experience at home. Vibrant Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a bold taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy yogurt sauce. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish fits seamlessly into your busy week while still impressing your guests, just like my favorite Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Versatile & Gluten-Free: This recipe caters to various dietary needs, allowing you to impress everyone without compromising taste or health. Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Lebanese classic is sure to be an instant hit, offering a delightful twist that makes it memorable! Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Tenderloin – Acts as the main protein; cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Substitute with boneless chicken breast or thighs as needed. For the Marinade • Greek or Plain Yogurt – Essential for marinating the chicken, ensuring moisture and flavor retention; full-fat works best for creamy results. • Lemon Juice – Provides acidity for tenderizing and imparts a bright, tangy flavor; fresh lemons are always preferred for optimal taste. • Garlic – Adds aromatic depth to both the marinade and the sauce; finely grated or crushed garlic will give better flavor infusion. • Olive Oil – Enhances the richness in the marinade, balancing the acidity of lemon; extra virgin olive oil is ideal for maximum flavor. • Salt – Crucial for bringing out the flavors in both the marinade and sauce; proper measurement is important for a delicious result. For the Sauce • Tahini (optional) – Introduces a creamy texture to the yogurt sauce without overpowering flavors; replace with extra olive oil if unavailable. • Parsley – Adds freshness as a garnish to the final dish; consider pairing it with mint for an extra herbaceous taste. For Serving • Lebanese Bread – Recommended for serving, it’s perfect for mopping up the delicious yogurt sauce and enhances the meal experience. This flavorful adaptation of the Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is certain to elevate your mealtime, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful feast! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Al Aseel Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt to create a flavorful marinade for your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re well-coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, allowing the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. Step 2: Prepare the Sauce While the chicken marinates, prepare the creamy yogurt sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together yogurt, tahini (if using), minced garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil until smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to sit at room temperature for at least one hour to let the flavors meld beautifully. This step is crucial to enhance the taste of your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Step 3: Cook the Chicken After marinating, heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place it in the hot pan. Cook the chicken for 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm while you finish cooking the rest. Step 4: Warm the Sauce Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to warm up the garlic yogurt sauce. Place the sauce in the microwave and heat it for about 30 to 45 seconds until it’s warm, but be careful not to overheat it. Remove it from the microwave, taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt or lemon juice if desired for your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Step 5: Serve To assemble your dish, spread half of the creamy garlic yogurt sauce on a large serving plate. Arrange the golden chicken tenderloins on top, then drizzle the remaining sauce over the chicken. Finish the dish with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with warm Lebanese bread to scoop up every last bite of this delightful dish. Make Ahead Options These Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic to deeply infuse the meat while it refrigerates. Similarly, the creamy yogurt sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready when you are. To maintain quality and prevent the chicken from drying out, be sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and warm the sauce briefly in the microwave, and you’ll have a flavorful, stress-free meal that feels just like dining at your favorite Lebanese restaurant! Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists! Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a non-dairy option while still keeping that creamy texture. Extra Zesty: Add lemon zest to the marinade for an even brighter flavor profile that will wake up your taste buds. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or coriander in the marinade for a unique aroma and fresh taste in every bite. Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a gentle heat that balances beautifully with the lemon and garlic. For a heartier dish, serve your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken alongside roasted garlic kale for an exquisite flavor combo. Crunchy Texture: Finish the dish with some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that adds interest and depth to the meal. Grain Options: Swap out Lebanese bread for a bed of spiced lentil rice like Mejadra—it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the sauce! Garlic Lovers: Consider using roasted garlic in the sauce for a mellower, sweeter flavor that mingles perfectly with the fresh notes of garlic. Feel free to explore these variations, as you might find a new favorite way to enjoy this Lebanese classic! Expert Tips for Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinate Wisely: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 12 hours enhances the flavor immensely, so don’t rush this step! Cook in Batches: To prevent steaming and ensure a beautiful golden sear, cook the chicken in two batches instead of overcrowding the pan. Perfect Garlic Balance: Be mindful of the amount of garlic used; too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for an ideal flavor. Warm Sauce Gently: When reheating the garlic sauce, use short increments in the microwave. You want it warm, not hot, to maintain its creamy texture. Garnish Smartly: Fresh parsley adds a lovely finish, but don’t hesitate to toss in some mint for an added depth of flavor that complements the Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken beautifully! What to Serve with Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken. Garlic Rice: The buttery, fragrant rice infused with garlic mirrors the aromatic qualities of the chicken, bringing harmony to your meal. Its fluffy texture makes each bite comforting and satisfying. Fattoush Salad: A refreshing balance, this crunchy salad of mixed greens, radishes, and crispy pita chips offers a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken. The zesty lemon dressing adds brightness to your plate. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs and olive oil, these slightly caramelized veggies provide earthy flavors and vibrant colors, making for a beautiful presentation alongside your dish. Hummus with Pita: Smooth, rich hummus acts as a perfect dip for your Lebanese bread. Its creamy texture offers a delicious way to scoop up the garlic yogurt sauce and adds a protein boost. Lentil Salad: A nutty and bright lentil salad adds a heartiness to your meal while keeping everything fresh and healthy. The lemony dressing ties in beautifully with the flavors of your chicken. Mint Tea: A warm, soothing drink that cleanses the palate after rich bites. The cooling mint complements the garlic and lemon in the dish and adds a traditional touch to your Lebanese-inspired meal. Baklava for Dessert: Finish off with this sweet, flaky pastry filled with nuts and honey. Its rich sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory flavors of the chicken, providing a satisfying end to your feast. How to Store and Freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Fridge: Store cooked Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, portion and freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through, taking care not to overcook. Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, but ensure it never touches raw chicken for food safety. Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken works best for this recipe? Absolutely! Chicken tenderloin is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and quick cooking time. However, you can substitute it with boneless chicken breasts or thighs if needed. Just ensure that whatever you choose is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. How should I store the leftover Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken? To keep your chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. Adding a piece of parchment paper between layers can help retain moisture – just a tip I often use! Can I freeze Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken? Yes, indeed! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of olive oil to avoid drying it out. What should I do if the yogurt sauce is too runny? If your garlic yogurt sauce turns out too runny, don’t worry! You can thicken it by adding a bit more yogurt or a spoonful of tahini, if you have it. Whisk it in until you achieve your desired consistency. Letting it sit in the fridge for a short while can also help it firm up a bit. Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies? Yes, this Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is gluten-free! The ingredients used, including chicken, yogurt, and olive oil, are all naturally gluten-free. Just ensure to serve it with gluten-free sides, and it can be enjoyed by everyone, including those with gluten allergies. Deliciously Tender Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken – Al Aseel Style This Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe brings zesty lemon and aromatic garlic to your dining table, inspired by Al Aseel's beloved dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsMarinating Time 12 hours hrsTotal Time 12 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: LebaneseCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken500 grams Chicken Tenderloin Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.For the Marinade1 cup Greek or Plain Yogurt Full-fat works best for creamy results.1/2 cup Lemon Juice Fresh lemons are preferred for optimal taste.4 cloves Garlic Finely grated or crushed for better flavor infusion.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for maximum flavor.1 teaspoon Salt Important for balancing flavors.For the Sauce1/4 cup Tahini (optional) Can be replaced with extra olive oil if unavailable.2 tablespoons Parsley For garnish.For Serving4 pieces Lebanese Bread Perfect for mopping up the yogurt sauce. Equipment Mixing Bowlnon-stick panMicrowave-Safe Bowl Method Marinating and CookingIn a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt to create a marinade. Add the chicken tenderloins and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.Prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking yogurt, tahini (if using), minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Let it sit at room temperature for at least one hour.Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat with olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Keep warm.Warm the garlic yogurt sauce in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.To serve, spread half of the yogurt sauce on a plate, arrange chicken on top, drizzle with remaining sauce, and garnish with parsley. Serve with Lebanese bread. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 28gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg NotesMarinate the chicken for at least 12 hours for better flavor. Cook in batches for a golden sear, and gently heat the sauce to maintain its texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
