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Za’atar Chicken

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Za’atar Chicken is a simple and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dinner made with juicy chicken quarters, fragrant za’atar, fresh lemon, garlic, tomato paste, and olive oil. Roasting the chicken with sliced onions creates a savory, golden dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 5 chicken legs (chicken quarters), about 2.4 lb (1 kg)
  • 1½ tablespoons za’atar seasoning
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 medium onion, sliced into rounds
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large roasting pan or baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, combine the za’atar, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic paste, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to make a flavorful marinade.
  3. Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels. Rub the marinade generously over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the sliced onions in the bottom of the baking dish and place the marinated chicken quarters on top.
  5. Roast for 45–55 minutes, or until the chicken is deeply golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
  6. For extra browning, broil the chicken for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Spoon some of the roasted onions and pan juices over the chicken.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate it overnight.
  • Chicken quarters work well because the bone and skin help keep the meat juicy while roasting.
  • Adjust the amount of za’atar according to your preferred intensity.
  • Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part without touching the bone.
  • Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, salad, or warm flatbread.

Find it online: https://ayoubrecipe.com/zaatar-chicken/