Name: The Best Easy Za’atar Chicken Marinade Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492000H31M24S
Total time: PT-492000H31M24S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup lemon juice (about one large lemon); 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 tablespoons za’atar; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh parsley; Lemon wedges; Additional za’atar; 4 chicken pieces (breasts or thighs preferred)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This easy za’atar chicken marinade brings vibrant Middle Eastern flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Infused with tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and earthy za’atar, it makes for juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

The image shows a white plate with grilled chicken as the main layer, seasoned with herbs and spices, with a slightly charred texture and garnished with small green herbs on top. The chicken is sliced into thick strips, placed on the right side of the plate, while a whole grilled chicken breast lies on the left side. Behind the chicken is a layer of flatbread, folded and browned in spots, covering part of the plate’s upper left edge. There are two lemon slices, one grilled with brown marks, placed near the chicken and flatbread on the bottom left and upper right edges of the plate. Fresh parsley is arranged on the bottom left of the plate next to the chicken, and a red tomato wedge with some green herbs is on the bottom right beside the sliced chicken pieces. All these are set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup lemon juice (about one large lemon)
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons za’atar
1 teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, lemon, and extra za’atar for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Add olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic, za’atar, sea salt, and black pepper to a bowl. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place it in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Use tongs to ensure each piece is fully coated.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, letting excess marinade drip off. Cook 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Remove chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of za’atar.

Tips & Variations

For a zestier punch, add 1 teaspoon of sumac to the marinade along with za’atar.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts based on your preference; thighs stay juicier while breasts cook leaner.
If you don’t have za’atar, you can substitute with a mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and oregano.
Marinate the chicken overnight when possible to maximize flavor absorption.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to keep it moist. The marinade itself can be made ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days as well.

How to Serve

A white plate with grilled chicken pieces arranged in layers, each piece showing a dark brown, slightly charred texture with green herbs sprinkled throughout. The chicken is cut into thick strips and slices, with a close-up focus on one strip being held by a silver fork above the plate. A slice of red tomato sits on the bottom right of the plate, adding a bright contrast to the chicken. In the background, part of a yellow lemon wedge and some flatbread are visible. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this marinade?

It’s best to marinate fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure the marinade penetrates evenly. If using frozen chicken, thaw completely before marinating.

What can I serve with za’atar chicken?

This flavorful chicken pairs well with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.