Dinner

Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Name: Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

ByJulian Dempsey December 14, 2025December 14, 2025

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Introduction

This Lebanese Lemon Garlic Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish that combines zesty lemon, aromatic spices, and tender chicken for a delightful meal. Perfect for grilling or baking, it’s easy to prepare and excellent for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.

Several grilled chicken pieces with dark char marks and a golden-brown crust are stacked on a white round plate. Each piece is topped with a creamy white sauce drizzled unevenly and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. Two bright yellow lemon wedges are placed at the left edge of the plate. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a blurred white bowl in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 3: Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for cooking the chicken.
Step 4: If grilling, place the chicken on the grill over medium-high heat and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Serve with rice or a fresh salad to balance the citrusy spices.
Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for mild flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A white round plate holds nine pieces of grilled chicken thighs arranged closely together. The chicken has a golden brown color with darker, charred grill marks on each piece, giving a textured appearance. A creamy white sauce is drizzled over most pieces, creating small pools on the plate underneath. Small green herb sprinkles are scattered on top of the chicken and sauce. On the left side of the plate, there are three lemon wedges placed together, showing bright yellow juicy flesh. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used but will require longer cooking time to reach a safe internal temperature. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure the chicken is fully cooked.