Name: Baked Zaatar Yogurt Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-491675H25M48S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 lbs (8) boneless chicken thighs or breasts (skin on or off); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp lemon juice + zest from one lemon; 2 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped; 2 tbsp zaatar seasoning; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or Aleppo flakes); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Introduction

Baked Zaatar Yogurt Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish that combines tangy yogurt with the aromatic spices of zaatar. This easy-to-make recipe delivers juicy chicken infused with bright lemon and garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Close-up of several pieces of cooked chicken thighs on a white tray, showing a golden-brown and slightly crispy texture with visible seasoning and small bits of herbs all over. The chicken skin looks tender with some parts browned more deeply, and there is a light coating of juices and oil around the meat. The edges of the tray have some darker, caramelized spots. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs (8) boneless chicken thighs or breasts (skin on or off)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp lemon juice + zest from one lemon
2 cloves garlic (crushed and chopped)
2 tbsp zaatar seasoning
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or Aleppo flakes)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, zaatar seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 2: Place the chicken pieces into a gallon-size plastic food storage bag or a large plastic container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and arrange in a single layer in the dish.
Step 4: Bake the chicken uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with couscous and warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, try grilling the marinated chicken instead of baking.
Use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; adjust baking time to prevent drying.
If zaatar is unavailable, substitute with a mix of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and oregano to mimic the flavor.
Marinate the chicken overnight to enhance tenderness and flavor infusion.

Storage

Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist. The marinade sauce can be spooned over when serving to add moisture during reheating.

How to Serve

A beige pan filled with six grilled chicken thighs placed over a bed of small, round couscous mixed with diced yellow and green bell peppers, and scattered bright red pomegranate seeds, all garnished with chopped green herbs. The chicken has a golden-brown, slightly crispy texture with visible seasoning. The couscous looks soft with a light coating, and the colorful mix of vegetables and pomegranate seeds adds vibrant contrast. The edges of the pan sit against a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but may cook faster and can dry out if overbaked. Keep an eye on internal temperature and consider reducing baking time slightly.

What is zaatar seasoning?

Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from dried thyme, oregano, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. It adds a unique herbal and tangy flavor to dishes.