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Lemon Garlic Chicken with Yogurt

Labanese Lemon Garlic Yogurt Chicken Recipe

A bright, high-protein Mediterranean favorite featuring tender, yogurt-marinated chicken breast pan-seared to golden perfection. Served over a luxurious, tahini-infused lemon garlic yogurt sauce and finished with fresh herbs and extra virgin olive oil.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 345
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast or Tenderloins
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Full-fat
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Salt & 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
The Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
  • 1 tbsp Tahini
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1-2 tbsp Water to thin

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet (Cast iron preferred)
  • 2 Mixing Bowls (Medium and Small)
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
  • 1 Sharp Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Marinate: Mix marinade ingredients, coat chicken, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Make Sauce: Whisk sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 5–6 mins per side until golden and cooked through.
  4. Plate: Spread sauce on a plate, top with chicken, and garnish with parsley and lemon.

Notes

  • The Yogurt Secret: Using full-fat Greek yogurt is essential; it creates a protective barrier that keeps the chicken juicy under high heat.
  • Pro Prep: If you have the time, marinate the chicken for a full 24 hours. The lactic acid in the yogurt works slowly to break down fibers, resulting in a texture far superior to quick-marinated poultry.
  • Serving Suggestion: This dish is traditionally served with warm pita or over a bed of fluffy bulgur to soak up the extra garlic sauce.