Craving a vibrant and flavorful dinner that transports you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean? Look no further than this Zaatar Lemon Chicken recipe! This dish bursts with the aromatic spice blend of zaatar, the bright zest of lemon, and the succulent tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken. It's a simple yet elegant meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing your family and friends with minimal effort. The fragrant blend of herbs and spices creates a truly unforgettable taste experience, elevating a simple chicken dish to something extraordinary.
Zaatar Lemon Chicken is surprisingly easy to make, requiring readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. This recipe offers a delicious balance of savory and bright flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering Zaatar Lemon Chicken.
Tools Needed
- Roasting pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Pepper
- Salt
- Onions
- Lemons
- Seven spices
- Cayenne pepper
- Sumac
- Coarse pepper
- Zaatar
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic granules
- Pomegranate molasses
- Potatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, rub it well. Sprinkle pepper and salt, rubbing it well into the chicken cavity.
- Marinate chicken overnight.
- Fill the chicken cavity with quartered onions and lemons.
- Dry the chicken surface, removing excess salt and pepper.
- Season the chicken with seven spices, cayenne pepper, sumac, freshly ground coarse pepper, zaatar, a pinch of salt, paprika, and garlic granules.
- Rub the spice mixture well over the chicken.
Step 2. Prepare the Vegetables and Roasting Pan
- Slice potatoes into not-too-thin slices.
- Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of the roasting pan, and arrange potato slices. Add lemon slices around the potatoes.
Step 3. Roast the Chicken
- Transfer the chicken to the roasting pan.
- Preheat oven to 220°C (428°F). Roast uncovered for 10-15 minutes until the skin browns and crisps.
- Cover the pan, lower the heat to 185-190°C (365-374°F), and cook until evenly done.
Step 4. Serve
- Remove from oven and serve.
Read more: Arabic Eggplant Recipe: A Simple & Delicious Guide
Tips
- Use a mix of smoked or sweet paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Add pomegranate molasses for an extra layer of sweetness and tang.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Both work great! Bone-in thighs will be slightly more flavorful and juicy, but boneless are quicker to cook.
2. What can I substitute for zaatar if I don't have any?
A blend of dried oregano, thyme, marjoram, and a pinch of sumac can make a good substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.
This Zaatar Lemon Chicken recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by bold flavors. Enjoy the fragrant aroma and delicious taste that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.