Savory Armenian Herb-Garlic Grilled Chicken
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience with this Savory Armenian Herb-Garlic Grilled Chicken recipe! It’s a celebration of flavors that brings together the freshness of herbs and the robust richness of garlic. This family favorite takes me back to my childhood, where my mom would prepare this magical marinade for our weekly gatherings. Whether grilled to perfection or baked for convenience, the tender chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors, making every bite a mouthwatering delight. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this marinade not only elevates chicken breasts but also works wonders with lamb, making it versatile for your cooking repertoire. Don't miss the chance to impress your loved ones or take it to a potluck; everyone will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/2 cup (none)
lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
thyme
1 teaspoon (dried)
marjoram
1 teaspoon (dried)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
garlic clove
1 clove (minced)
shallot
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
parsley
1/4 cup (snipped)
chicken breasts or lamb
1 1/2-2 lbs (whole or cut into chunks)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, thyme, marjoram, pepper, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and snipped parsley.
2
Whisk the ingredients together until fully blended, creating a fragrant marinade.
3
Place your cleaned and dried chicken breasts (or lamb chunks) in a large 8 x 11-inch glass baking dish.
4
Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is well coated. Use your hands or a spoon to massage the marinade into the meat for maximum flavor.
5
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
6
When ready to cook, drain the meat from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
7
If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken, basting periodically with the reserved marinade, until the meat is cooked through (165°F internal temperature). If baking, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally, until cooked through.
8
Serve immediately for a warm dish or let cool to enjoy cold on a Caesar salad for leftovers!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Armenian Herb-Garlic Grilled Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish featuring a robust garlic and herb marinade inspired by Armenian culinary traditions, perfect for chicken or lamb.
What are the primary flavors in this recipe?
The recipe combines the freshness of lemon and parsley with the savory notes of garlic, shallot, thyme, and marjoram.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, dried thyme, dried marjoram, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and snipped parsley.
What type of oil is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of olive oil.
Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor profile.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe uses one minced garlic clove.
What kind of onion is used in the marinade?
The recipe specifically requires 1/2 cup of finely chopped shallot.
Which herbs are included?
It uses dried thyme, dried marjoram, and freshly snipped parsley.
What types of meat can be used with this marinade?
It is ideal for 1.5 to 2 lbs of chicken breasts or lamb chunks.
How should I prepare the marinade?
Whisk all marinade ingredients in a large mixing bowl until fully blended and fragrant.
What is the best way to apply the marinade to the meat?
Pour the marinade over the meat in a glass dish and massage it in with your hands or a spoon for maximum flavor.
What size dish should I use for marinating?
An 8 x 11-inch glass baking dish is recommended.
How long should the meat marinate?
Refrigerate the meat in the marinade for 24 to 48 hours to allow flavors to fully penetrate.
Do I need to cover the meat while it marinates?
Yes, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator.
Should I keep the marinade after soaking the meat?
Yes, drain the meat but reserve the marinade to use for basting during the cooking process.
How do I grill the chicken?
Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook the meat while basting periodically with the reserved marinade.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can this chicken be baked instead of grilled?
Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to bake the chicken?
Bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, basting occasionally, until fully cooked.
Is this recipe suitable for lamb?
Yes, the marinade works wonders with lamb chunks as a versatile alternative to chicken.
How should the chicken be served?
It can be served immediately as a warm main dish or enjoyed cold later.
What is a good way to use leftovers?
Leftover cold chicken is excellent when sliced and served on top of a Caesar salad.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, because it requires a long marinating time and can be served cold, it is perfect for meal planning.
Is this an easy recipe to follow?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe that is great for beginners and family gatherings.
What makes this recipe 'Armenian'?
It is inspired by the creator's childhood family gatherings and traditional flavor profiles.
Can I use this for a barbecue?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as ideal for summer barbecues and outdoor grilling.
How many ingredients are in the recipe?
The recipe contains 10 main ingredients including the meat and marinade components.
How should the parsley be prepared?
The parsley should be snipped into small pieces before being added to the mix.
Can I use chicken thighs?
While the recipe specifies breasts, the marinade is versatile enough for other cuts or lamb.
Why is the marinating time so long?
The 24 to 48 hour window ensures the herb and garlic flavors deeply penetrate the meat for a mouthwatering result.