Are you looking for a flavorful twist to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further! Za’atar, a Middle Eastern herb blend, adds a depth of flavor and aroma that pairs perfectly with chicken. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering za’atar chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family.
From classic roasted chicken dishes to innovative skewers and wraps, our collection of recipes showcases the versatility of za’atar in both traditional and modern culinary applications. So, get ready to spice up your meals with these delectable za’atar chicken creations!
Za’atar Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Garlic
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted chicken, this Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines the earthy warmth of za’atar with bright citrus notes from lemon and pungency from garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp za’atar
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together za’atar, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Savor the flavors of the Middle East with these aromatic grilled chicken skewers, infused with the warmth of za’atar and served with a refreshing yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon za’atar (Middle Eastern herb blend)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 wooden skewers
– Yogurt Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with Yogurt Dip (see below).
Yogurt Dip:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes (depending on grill temperature)
Crispy Za’atar Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the savory taste of za’atar with the crunch of crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp za’atar spice blend (thyme, oregano, marjoram, and toasted sesame seeds)
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Za’atar Chicken and Hummus Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this flavorful combination of crispy Za’atar chicken, creamy hummus, and soft flatbread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Za’atar spice blend
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and crumbled feta for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and Za’atar spice blend.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the Za’atar mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Spread hummus evenly over flatbread.
6. Slice baked chicken into strips and place on top of hummus.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and crumbled feta (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Za’atar Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots
A flavorful and aromatic one-pan meal that combines the warmth of za’atar with the comfort of chicken, potatoes, and carrots. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp za’atar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken, potatoes, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to brown.
4. Sprinkle za’atar over the top and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Wrap with Tahini Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this delectable Za’atar chicken wrap, topped with a creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp za’atar spice blend
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together za’atar spice blend and olive oil.
3. Marinate the chicken breast in the za’atar mixture for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the tahini sauce by mixing tahini paste with lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble the wraps by slicing the cooked chicken into strips and placing it on a tortilla, followed by a dollop of tahini sauce and any desired garnishes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Salad with Pomegranate and Feta
Discover the Middle Eastern flavors of this refreshing salad, featuring juicy chicken, crunchy pomegranate seeds, crumbly feta, and a hint of za’atar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons za’atar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken, parsley, pomegranate seeds, and feta cheese. Toss until well combined.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss again.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Slow-Cooked Za’atar Chicken with Chickpeas
A flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp za’atar (a blend of thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken thighs, za’atar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chickpeas and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
7. Cover the pot or slow cooker and transfer it to the preheated oven (or cook on low for 6-8 hours).
8. Braise the chicken for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Za’atar Grilled Chicken with Mediterranean Rice
Elevate your grilled chicken game with the bold flavors of za’atar, a Middle Eastern herb blend. This recipe combines juicy chicken with creamy Mediterranean rice for a satisfying and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp za’atar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together za’atar, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with the za’atar mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While chicken cooks, combine cooked rice, parsley, lemon juice, and feta cheese (if using) in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled chicken atop Mediterranean rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Za’atar Butter Chicken with Herb Rice
This Middle Eastern-inspired dish combines the richness of butter and za’atar with the tenderness of chicken, served atop a flavorful herb-infused rice. A perfect blend of earthy and aromatic flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp za’atar
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the herb rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, za’atar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the za’atar butter mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook the herb rice according to package instructions using water, olive oil, parsley, mint, scallions, and salt.
6. Serve the chicken breasts atop the herb-infused rice.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this aromatic recipe featuring chicken kebabs infused with za’atar, a blend of herbs and spices commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. Serve with a tangy garlic sauce for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons za’atar
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup garlic sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve with Garlic Sauce (see below) and your choice of sides.
Garlic Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Za’atar Crusted Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your mealtime with the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine! This recipe combines the rich flavors of za’atar, a herb blend commonly used in Lebanese cooking, with juicy chicken breast and roasted vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup za’atar (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, za’atar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the za’atar mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast vegetables in a separate baking dish for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Bake chicken for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken breast with roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Za’atar Chicken and Couscous Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the savory flavors of za’atar-spiced chicken with fluffy couscous, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy drizzle. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp za’atar spice blend
– 1 cup cooked couscous
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and za’atar spice blend.
3. Season chicken breast with salt and pepper, then brush with the za’atar mixture.
4. Roast chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook couscous according to package instructions.
6. Toss mixed vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté in a pan with a little oil until tender.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of couscous, followed by roasted vegetables.
8. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Za’atar Chicken Wings with Tzatziki
This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of za’atar and chili flakes with the cooling tanginess of tzatziki sauce, all on a crispy fried chicken wing. Perfect for game day or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp za’atar
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, za’atar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings and toss until fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Pizza with Olives and Feta
Experience the flavors of the Middle East on this delicious pizza, featuring chicken, olives, feta cheese, and the aromatic za’atar herb blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp za’atar herb blend
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 8 oz pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Top with chicken mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange sliced onions on top of the chicken.
5. Sprinkle olives and feta cheese over the onion layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of za’atar, sun-dried tomatoes, and juicy chicken for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp. za’atar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and za’atar. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, where succulent chicken and aromatic spices meet the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup Za’atar seasoning (thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 bell peppers, any color, seeded and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, Za’atar seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and chopped bell peppers.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Za’atar Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Avocados
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this unique and delicious recipe, combining creamy avocados with savory za’atar chicken and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons za’atar spice blend
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breast to the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Cut avocados in half and remove pit.
6. Stuff each avocado with cooked quinoa, chopped grilled chicken, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Za’atar Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Tahini Drizzle
A flavorful twist on classic chicken wraps, this recipe combines juicy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and creamy tahini sauce with the Middle Eastern flair of za’atar. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons za’atar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Tahini drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush with the za’atar mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Assemble wraps by placing lettuce leaves on a flat surface, then adding chicken, and finishing with tahini drizzle (see below).
Tahini Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Use as desired.
Za’atar Chicken and Eggplant Bake
A flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of za’atar, chicken, and eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, za’atar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken and eggplant slices to the bowl; toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; pour in chicken broth.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the eggplant is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for new ways to spice up your chicken dishes? This collection of 20 recipes showcases the bold flavors of za’atar, a Middle Eastern herb blend. From classic roasted chicken with lemon and garlic to creative wraps with tahini sauce, there’s something for every occasion. Try grilled skewers with yogurt dip, crispy baked thighs, or slow-cooked chicken with chickpeas. You’ll also find international twists like Mediterranean rice, sun-dried tomatoes, and quinoa-stuffed avocados. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to mix things up, these za’atar chicken recipes are sure to please.
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