Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Lebanese chicken is no exception. This dish is a symphony of spices, herbs, and citrus, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1 Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined
2 Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3 Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C)
4 Grill or Bake the Chicken:
- Grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Baking: Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
5 Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Lebanese chicken hot with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad
Tips for the Perfect Lebanese Chicken:
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Citrus Twist: For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken.
- Herby Garnish: Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.
- Side Dish Pairing: Consider serving the chicken with a side of tzatziki sauce or a refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and Lebanese chicken dish that will impress your family and friends.