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Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini Garlic Sauce

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Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring spiced chicken thighs paired with a creamy, garlicky tahini sauce. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and nutty flavors, making it a versatile and healthy option for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon za’atar spice blend

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tahini Garlic Sauce:

  • ½ cup tahini (ensure it’s runny)

  • ⅓ cup red wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ¼ cup lemon juice (about the juice of one large lemon)

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken:
    In a bowl, combine olive oil, za’atar, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the mixture.

  • Marinate:
    Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

  • Cook the Chicken:
    Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  • Prepare the Sauce:
    In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

  • Serve:
    Place the grilled chicken thighs on a serving platter. Drizzle with the tahini garlic sauce and garnish with chopped parsley or additional za’atar if desired.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks for a plant-based version.Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tahini sauce for heat.Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or cilantro into the tahini sauce for added freshness.Oven-Baked Option: Roast the marinated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.