Za’atar Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be grilled, roasted, or cooked in the air fryer. The chicken is marinated in a rich mix of za’atar seasoning, lemon, garlic paste, and tomato paste, creating a tender, juicy, and deliciously spiced dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a summer BBQ, and can be paired with a variety of sides, from rice to salads.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 5 chicken legs (chicken quarters)

• 1½ tbsp Za’atar seasoning

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 medium onion (sliced into rounds)

• 1 tbsp garlic paste

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• ¼ cup olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Make the marinade: In a large bowl, combine za’atar seasoning, lemon juice, zest, garlic paste, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

2. Prepare the chicken: Trim any unwanted fat and skin from the chicken legs. Using a sharp knife, make three incisions on each leg to help the marinade penetrate the meat.

3. Marinate: Add the chicken legs to the marinade and coat them well, rubbing the mixture into the crevices. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).

5. Roast the chicken: Arrange the sliced onions and squeezed lemon shaft on a rimmed baking tray. Place the marinated chicken legs on top of the onions and lemon.

6. Bake: Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken halfway through.

7. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving with your choice of sides.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 399 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 32g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 120mg

• Sodium: 136mg

• Potassium: 394mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 2g

• Vitamin A: 243 IU

• Vitamin C: 4mg

• Calcium: 94mg

• Iron: 3mg

Why Za’atar Chicken Is So Popular

Za’atar Chicken stands out for several reasons. First, its marinade is packed with flavor. The za’atar seasoning, lemon juice, and garlic paste give the chicken a deep, aromatic profile that is both savory and bright. The lemon zest enhances the flavor with a subtle citrusy note, while the tomato paste adds richness and depth to the dish. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that elevates the chicken to another level.

The versatility of the recipe is another key factor in its popularity. It can be easily adapted to suit different cooking methods. Whether you prefer to grill the chicken for a smoky char, roast it in the oven for tender juiciness, or cook it in an air fryer for a quicker option, Za’atar Chicken delivers every time. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to BBQs with friends and family.

Moreover, the health benefits of this dish cannot be overlooked. Chicken legs, the primary ingredient, are a great source of protein, and the olive oil used in the marinade offers heart-healthy fats. The za’atar seasoning is also packed with antioxidant-rich herbs, such as thyme and sumac, which have anti-inflammatory properties. All these factors contribute to making Za’atar Chicken not only a delicious dish but a nutritious one as well.

How to Make Za’atar Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

To prepare Za’atar Chicken, you’ll first need to create the marinade. The za’atar seasoning, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic paste, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper are combined in a bowl to form a tangy and herby mixture. It’s important to ensure that the chicken legs are thoroughly coated with this marinade to achieve the best flavor.

Once the marinade is prepared, the chicken legs should be trimmed of any excess fat or skin to ensure even cooking. Making three incisions in each leg helps the marinade penetrate the meat more effectively, allowing the spices and flavors to infuse deeply into the chicken.

After marinating the chicken for at least two hours (or overnight for even more flavor), it’s time to cook. The chicken can be roasted in the oven, and the addition of sliced onions and lemon wedges on the baking tray adds extra flavor and a beautiful aromatic base. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-45 minutes ensures that the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Basting the chicken halfway through ensures a juicy, flavorful result.

Cooking Methods: Roasting, Grilling, or Air Frying

One of the best features of Za’atar Chicken is its adaptability to different cooking methods. Here’s a breakdown of how you can prepare this dish based on your preferred cooking style:

• Roasting: This is the most straightforward method. Roasting the chicken at 400°F (200°C) ensures that it cooks evenly and develops a crispy skin while staying tender and juicy on the inside. The aroma of the za’atar seasoning and the lemony marinade fills your kitchen as the chicken roasts, making it a delightful dish to prepare.

• Grilling: Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the bright and earthy notes of the za’atar. Simply preheat your grill, and cook the marinated chicken on medium-high heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking. Grilling can result in a crispy char on the outside, which contrasts beautifully with the juicy meat inside.

• Air Frying: For a quicker, more hands-off option, you can cook Za’atar Chicken in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), then place the marinated chicken legs in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The air fryer produces a crispy exterior without the need for much oil, making it a great option for a lighter version of the dish.

Each method brings out the flavors of the chicken in a different way, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your preference or cooking time.

Side Dishes to Pair with Za’atar Chicken

Za’atar Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. The bold flavors of the chicken can be complemented by a variety of sides, from fresh salads to hearty grains. Here are a few ideas for sides that pair beautifully with Za’atar Chicken:

• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs like parsley and cilantro can be a great complement to the chicken, balancing the richness of the olive oil and spices.

• Tabbouleh Salad: The fresh, tangy flavors of tabbouleh, with its combination of parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bulgur wheat, provide a refreshing contrast to the flavorful chicken.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, tossed with olive oil and seasoning, make a delicious and nutritious side that pairs well with the roasted or grilled chicken.

• Hummus and Pita Bread: For a Middle Eastern-inspired meal, serve Za’atar Chicken with creamy hummus and warm pita bread. The hummus adds a rich, smooth texture that complements the chicken’s spices.

You can also serve Za’atar Chicken with a side of yogurt or a tahini sauce to add a cool, creamy element to the meal, which balances the flavors perfectly.

Nutritional Benefits of Za’atar Chicken

Za’atar Chicken not only delivers incredible flavor but also offers several nutritional benefits. The chicken legs are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. A single serving of Za’atar Chicken provides around 22 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

The dish is also relatively low in carbohydrates, with only 7 grams per serving. The use of olive oil in the marinade provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. Additionally, the za’atar seasoning contains sumac, which is rich in antioxidants, and thyme, which has been linked to various health benefits, including improved digestion and reduced inflammation.

Za’atar Chicken is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. The lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C, which supports immune health, while the olive oil adds healthy fats and vitamin E. The combination of herbs and spices in the za’atar seasoning offers a range of beneficial compounds that support overall wellness.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Za’atar Chicken

Za’atar Chicken is a perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and simple preparation. Whether you choose to roast, grill, or cook it in the air fryer, this dish delivers juicy, tender chicken that is infused with the aromatic flavors of za’atar, lemon, garlic, and tomato paste. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual dinners to more formal gatherings, and it pairs well with a variety of sides.

Not only is Za’atar Chicken delicious, but it’s also a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants makes it a great choice for a wholesome, well-balanced meal. If you’re looking to try something new and flavorful, Za’atar Chicken is a must-try that will leave you craving more!