Za’atar Chicken is not only bursting with bold flavors, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or pan-searing, this dish delivers a beautiful golden crust with a juicy interior. The za’atar spice blend adds a depth of flavor that feels both exotic and comforting. It pairs wonderfully with rice, salads, or roasted vegetables, making it versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
Za’atar seasoning
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Lemon juice
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and za’atar seasoning.
Pat the chicken dry and place it in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
Roast in the oven for 30–40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 3–5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Marinate time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended) Cook time: 35 minutes Total time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Variations
Grilled Za’atar Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of roasting for a smoky flavor.
Za’atar Chicken Skewers: Cut chicken into cubes, marinate, and thread onto skewers for grilling or baking.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a kick.
Add Veggies: Roast with bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a one-pan meal.
Yogurt Marinade: Add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness and tang.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover za’atar chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
What is za’atar?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made with thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. It may include other herbs like oregano or marjoram, depending on the region.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Just adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster.
Can I grill za’atar chicken?
Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the za’atar spices.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While not mandatory, marinating for at least 30 minutes helps infuse the chicken with flavor and makes it more tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and bake it when ready to serve. Cooked chicken can also be stored and reheated later.
What can I serve with za’atar chicken?
It pairs well with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, pita bread, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
Can I use store-bought za’atar?
Yes, store-bought za’atar is convenient and works great, but you can also make your own blend if preferred.
Is this dish spicy?
Za’atar itself is not spicy. If you like heat, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the skin should be golden brown.
Can I freeze za’atar chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Za’atar Chicken is an easy and satisfying dish that brings bold Middle Eastern flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you roast, grill, or pan-sear it, the result is always juicy, herby, and delicious. With endless serving options and simple ingredients, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.
Za’atar Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern dish made with chicken seasoned with za’atar spice blend, olive oil, garlic, and lemon. It’s easy to prepare and results in juicy, golden chicken that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes to 1 hour
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Roasting
Cuisine:Middle Eastern
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
2 tablespoons za’atar seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and za’atar seasoning.
Pat the chicken dry and place it in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
Roast for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 3–5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Marinate longer for deeper flavor.Boneless chicken cooks faster; adjust time accordingly.Grill or pan-sear instead of roasting for variation.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven, skillet, or microwave as needed.
