The Best Easy Za’atar Chicken Marinade Recipe
This easy Za’atar Chicken Marinade recipe combines fragrant Middle Eastern spices with fresh lemon and garlic to create a vibrant and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the marinated chicken is cooked in a skillet until golden and juicy, making it an effortless way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes to overnight marinating time (active cooking time about 25 minutes)
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade 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
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Additional za’atar
Chicken
- 4 chicken pieces (breasts or thighs preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic, za’atar, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. Place them in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Use tongs to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
- Refrigerate: Cover the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add chicken pieces, letting excess marinade drip off to avoid splattering. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Slice if desired, garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of za’atar before serving.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend; you can find it at specialty stores or online.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or chicken breasts for leaner options.
- This marinade also works well with other proteins like lamb or vegetables.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Keywords: Za'atar chicken, Mediterranean chicken marinade, easy chicken recipe, skillet chicken, Middle Eastern spices
