Discover the vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine with Lebanese Lemon Chicken with Olives. This dish marries the tangy zest of lemon with the rich, briny flavor of olives, complemented by succulent chicken pieces. It's a simple yet flavor-packed meal that brings a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your table, perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on: 800g (1.76 lbs / 28 oz)
- Lemons, juiced: 2
- Garlic, minced: 15g (0.5 oz)
- Green olives, pitted: 100g (3.5 oz)
- Olive oil: 30ml (1 oz)
- Ground cumin: 5g (0.2 oz)
- Paprika: 5g (0.2 oz)
- Chicken broth: 250ml (8.5 oz)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped: for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Sauté until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Garlic: Add garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
- Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add lemon juice, olives, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook: Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Brown the Chicken Well: This adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Quality Olives: Use good quality green olives for the best flavor.
- Lemon Balance: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with rice, couscous, or a simple salad.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, it reheats well and the flavors develop more overnight.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.