Mediterranean Lemon & Herb Chicken (with Lemon Powder)

🌊 Mediterranean Lemon & Herb Chicken (with Lemon Powder)

📝 Description

This dish is bright, aromatic, and deeply Mediterranean. Lemon powder delivers intense citrus flavor without added liquid, while olive oil, garlic, and herbs create that classic coastal profile you find from Greece to southern Italy. It’s light but satisfying, perfect with salads, roasted vegetables, or warm pita.

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🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in preferred)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tsp lemon powder (or dried lemon zest)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• Optional: pinch of chili flakes

Optional Mediterranean add-ins:

• Kalamata olives

• Cherry tomatoes

• Red onion slices

• Fresh parsley or oregano (for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate

   • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon powder, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.

   • Coat chicken thoroughly.

   • Let marinate 30 minutes to overnight (longer = deeper flavor).

2. Cook

   • Oven method:

     • Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F

     • Place chicken in a baking dish, add olives/tomatoes if using

     • Bake 35–45 minutes, until golden and cooked through

   • Pan method:

     • Sear chicken skin-side down until crispy

     • Flip, cover, and cook until done

3. Finish

   • Rest 5 minutes

   • Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil

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🍽️ How to Serve (Mediterranean Style)

• With Greek salad

• Alongside roasted potatoes with oregano

• Over couscous or bulgur

• With warm flatbread + tzatziki

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❓ Q & A

Q: What exactly is lemon powder?

A: Lemon powder is dehydrated lemon zest (sometimes whole lemon) ground into a fine powder. It’s intensely citrusy without moisture.

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Q: Can I substitute fresh lemon?

A: Yes, but it’s different:

• 1 tsp lemon powder ≈ zest of 1 lemon

• Fresh lemon adds acidity and liquid; powder adds aroma and depth.

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Q: Is this recipe authentically Mediterranean?

A: Yes. Lemon, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and thyme are foundational across Greek, Italian, and Levantine cuisines.

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Q: Can I use this recipe for fish or vegetables?

A: Absolutely.

• Fish: Reduce cooking time, add capers

• Vegetables: Works beautifully with zucchini, eggplant, or potatoes

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Q: How long does lemon powder last?

A:

• Airtight jar

• Cool, dark place

• 6–12 months with strong flavor