Are you tired of the same repetitive meals for dinner? It’s time to shake things up with a Mediterranean-inspired recipe that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Za’atar chicken with lemon yogurt is a vibrant dish that blends aromatic spices, juicy chicken, and a creamy yogurt dip to create a dinner experience that feels gourmet without effort.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Dinner
This dish combines bold Middle Eastern flavors with simple ingredients, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Za’atar, a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac, infuses the chicken with an earthy, tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Paired with lemon yogurt, the result is a creamy, tangy dip that enhances every bite. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, with most of the magic happening during marination.
The smoky, charred edges of the chicken contrast beautifully with fresh garnishes like parsley and pomegranate seeds, adding a pop of color and texture. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, fluffy couscous, or a citrusy salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Tips for Customizing This Recipe
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ways to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs:
- Make It Vegan: Swap the chicken for cauliflower steaks or chickpeas. Roast or grill with the same za’atar seasoning for a plant-based twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, including za’atar spice blends, are certified gluten-free.
- Add a Heat Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with a drizzle of harissa for those who enjoy spice.
- Elevate the Yogurt Sauce: Mix in a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to complement the za’atar flavors further.
Meal Prep & Storage Ideas
Za’atar chicken is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. The chicken can be marinated ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Once cooked, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. The lemon yogurt sauce also stores well in an airtight container, making it a great addition to other dishes throughout the week.
For a make-ahead dinner party option, grill the chicken in advance and gently reheat it before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds right before serving for that freshly made appearance.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Elevate your dinner table by pairing this za’atar chicken recipe with complementary sides that highlight its Mediterranean roots:
- Citrus Salad with Olives: A tangy, refreshing salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Herb-Infused Couscous: Light and fluffy, it absorbs the juices from the chicken perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and eggplant seasoned with olive oil and sumac are excellent companions.
- Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita is great for scooping up every bit of the yogurt sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
Za’atar chicken with lemon yogurt is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The smoky aroma of grilled chicken, the bright tang of lemon, and the earthy depth of za’atar create a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Take a break from the mundane and give this vibrant dish a try. It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with Mediterranean flair—perfect for your next dinner adventure.
Za’atar Chicken with Lemon Yogurt Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 boneless,skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
- 8 garlic cloves grated or minced (divided use)
- Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons divided use
- 1 tablespoon za’atar
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for garnish
- 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt divided use
- ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt preferably whole-milk
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Parsley leaves
- Ground sumac
- Pomegranate seeds
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl with 7 of the grated garlic cloves, half the lemon zest and juice, za’atar, parsley, olive oil, and 1 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt. Toss everything until the chicken is thoroughly coated, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, but preferably up to 8 hours, to let the flavors deeply penetrate.
- Prepare the Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill to high heat or adjust your oven rack to the highest position and preheat the broiler. Ensure the cooking surface is ready for achieving a good char on the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:For Grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the leftover marinade for basting. Grill the chicken over high heat for 4 to 7 minutes, letting it develop a smoky char. Flip the pieces, baste with the reserved marinade, and grill for an additional 4 to 7 minutes until fully cooked.For Broiling: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the marinated chicken in a single layer on the tray. Broil the chicken, turning halfway through and basting occasionally with the reserved marinade. Cook for about 4 to 7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is well charred and thoroughly cooked through.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with the reserved 1 grated garlic clove, the remaining lemon zest, remaining lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and the black pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside for serving.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the cooked chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and additional lemon juice for extra brightness, if desired. Garnish the dish with fresh parsley, sumac, pomegranate seeds, and mint leaves. Serve with the lemon yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with a Citrus Salad with Olives or other fresh, zesty sides.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
- Adjust grilling or broiling times based on chicken thickness to avoid undercooking.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.