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Chicken with Lemon, Cumin, and Mint

4.3

(44)

This is a dish you might be served in a café in the Middle East. It's simple and flavorful and makes a quick dinner; it's also great for a picnic.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

Zest of 1 lemon, removed with a vegetable peeler
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
1/3 cup lemon oil or olive oil
2 tablespoons finely shredded fresh mint leaves
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika, preferably hot
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 chicken wings, bony tips removed and discarded
4 boneless chicken thighs, halved lengthwise
Lemon wedges for serving

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    1. Stir together the zest, lemon juice, lemon oil, 1 tablespoon of the mint, half the garlic, the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper with a fork, in a large bowl. Add the chicken and turn to coat. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

    Step 2

    2. Preheat the broiler. Place the chicken on the broiler pan and broil 4 to 5 inches from the heat, turning once, for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and just cooked through.

    Step 3

    3. Transfer the chicken to a platter, garnish with the lemon wedges, sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon mint and garlic, and serve.

    Step 4

    To make 1 cup lemon oil, put a cup of extra virgin olive oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, or vegetable oil in a jar with 3 tablespoons of finely grated lemon zest. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 3 weeks, shaking occasionally. Pour through a strainer and transfer to a jar. Discard the zest and refrigerate the oil.

Lemon Zest Broadway Books
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