Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this Roasted Za’atar Chicken recipe. Juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned with a fragrant blend of za’atar spice, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, then roasted to crispy, golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal, offering a delightful balance of herbs and citrus that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)

Za’atar Marinade

2 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

lemon slices
fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting the chicken evenly and developing crispy skin.
Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, za’atar spice blend, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
Dry Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during roasting.
Apply Marinade: Place the chicken in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Rub the za’atar marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get the mixture under the skin when possible to infuse deeper flavor.
Roast Chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley if desired before serving for an added burst of freshness and color.

Notes

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy meat and crispy skin, but drumsticks can be used as an alternative.
Get the marinade under the skin to maximize flavor penetration.
Letting the chicken rest after roasting helps retain juices and keeps the meat moist.
Za’atar spice blend typically includes thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt but can be bought pre-mixed for convenience.
Serve with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.