Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons or simply craving a cozy and flavorful meal, Lebanese cuisine offers a delightful array of dishes to explore. One of the classic and beloved recipes from this Middle Eastern region is Lebanese Chicken. Bursting with fragrant spices and hearty flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive in and learn how to create this delicious and aromatic meal that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Lebanon.
Lebanese Chicken
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. This fragrant marinade will infuse the chicken with layers of flavorful spices.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the spices to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want a nice and hot surface to achieve those beautiful char marks on the chicken.
4. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid.
5. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
6. While the chicken is cooking, you’ll start to notice the enticing aromas of the Lebanese spices wafting through your kitchen. This is the moment you’ll know the dish is going to be a flavorful delight.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
8. Before serving, sprinkle the Lebanese Chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and vibrant color. You can also squeeze a bit more lemon juice over the top for an extra citrusy kick.
9. Serve the Lebanese Chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides such as rice pilaf, tabbouleh, or a fresh salad. The aromatic flavors of the spices combined with the succulent chicken will surely leave your taste buds wanting more.
Lebanese Chicken is a wonderful dish that embodies the richness and warmth of Lebanese cuisine. This recipe is perfect for intimate family dinners or gatherings with friends, bringing a touch of exotic flair to your table. Experiment with different spice levels to suit your palate, and don’t be afraid to add your own twist to this classic dish. Try making extra for leftovers – the flavors tend to develop even more after a day in the fridge. Enjoy the delicious journey through Lebanese flavors with this savory and aromatic Lebanese Chicken recipe!
