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Za'atar Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in aromatic za'atar spice blend with olive oil and lemon. Crispy exterior, tender inside, and bursting with Middle Eastern flavors.

40 minEasyServes 4310 cal/serving

Middle EasternDinnerGrillStandardGluten-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 tbsp za'atar spice blend
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon wedges
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine 3 tbsp olive oil, 1.5 tbsp za'atar spice blend, 1 tsp lemon zest, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl.

  2. 2

    Pat 1.5 lbs patted dry boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and place in a bowl. Rub the za'atar mixture all over the chicken, coating evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Oil the grill grates.

  4. 4

    Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part. Do not move them frequently; let them develop a nice crust.

  5. 5

    Transfer to a clean plate and let rest for 5 minutes.

  6. 6

    Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve with 1 lemon wedges.

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Questions

What temperature do I cook Za'atar Grilled Chicken at?

For Za'atar Grilled Chicken, the oven is set to 400 F (about 205 C) in step 3. The target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 4. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

How long should Za'atar Grilled Chicken marinate?

Step 2 reads: "Let marinate for 10 minutes." Follow the time in step 2. Shorter still seasons the surface. Much longer is not better with acidic marinades, which turn the outside of meat or fish mushy.

What can I use instead of za'atar in Za'atar Grilled Chicken?

The entry for Za'atar Grilled Chicken calls for 1.5 tbsp za'atar spice blend. In its place: Combine dried thyme or oregano with toasted sesame seeds and a little lemon zest, which stands in for the sumac.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in Za'atar Grilled Chicken?

Yes, with care. Breasts dry out sooner: pull them at 165 F, which usually means a few minutes less than the thighs would take. As written, the entry for Za'atar Grilled Chicken uses 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry.

Is Za'atar Grilled Chicken gluten-free?

Yes. As written, nothing in the ingredient list for Za'atar Grilled Chicken is wheat, barley or rye. Gluten hides in packaged goods, so read the label on the za'atar.

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