Dinner

Za’atar Chicken Recipe

Name: Za’atar Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 5 Chicken legs (chicken quarters) (about 2.4lb / 1kg); 1½ Tablespoons Za’atar seasoning; Juice of 1 Lemon; Zest of 1 Lemon; 1 Tablespoon Garlic paste; 1 Tablespoon Tomato paste; ¼ cup Olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 medium Onion, sliced into rounds

ByMaya Quinn February 7, 2026February 7, 2026

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Introduction

Za’atar Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings Middle Eastern spices to your dinner table. Tender chicken legs marinated in a zesty blend of za’atar, lemon, and garlic create a juicy, golden roast perfect for any occasion.

The image shows several pieces of cooked chicken quarters with skin on, laid close together in a white baking dish. The chicken skin is golden brown with dark grilled marks and small charred spots, giving a crispy texture. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled evenly over the chicken, adding a fresh contrast to the rich brown and orange tones of the crispy skin. The chicken pieces appear juicy with a slight glaze in some parts, resting on a light layer of cooking juices. The background is a white marbled texture, bringing focus to the richly colored chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 chicken legs (chicken quarters) (about 2.4 lb / 1 kg)
1½ tablespoons za’atar seasoning
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1 medium onion, sliced into rounds
1 tablespoon garlic paste
1 tablespoon tomato paste
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine za’atar seasoning, lemon juice and zest, garlic paste, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
Step 2: Remove any unwanted fat and excess skin from the chicken legs. Using a sharp knife, make three shallow incisions on each leg to help the marinade penetrate and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add the chicken legs to the marinade and coat them thoroughly, rubbing the mixture into the cuts and all over the surface. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 5: Place the sliced onions and the squeezed lemon halves in a rimmed baking tray. Arrange the marinated chicken legs on top of the onions and lemon.
Step 6: Roast the chicken in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking. There is no need to flip the chicken.
Step 7: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the za’atar and lemon to deeply infuse the meat.
If you can’t find za’atar seasoning, try making your own blend with thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover za’atar chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain crisp skin. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.

How to Serve

A close-up of a beige bowl with two layers: the bottom layer is a colorful pasta salad with spiral pasta, red cherry tomato halves, green cucumber pieces, red onion chunks, and small yellow corn kernels all mixed together, and the top layer is grilled chicken breast with a golden-brown, slightly charred surface and visible herbs. A fork is placed near the chicken, with the woman’s fingers holding it slightly visible. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a light gray cloth nearby. 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 legs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but cooking times may be shorter. Watch carefully to avoid drying out the meat.

What is za’atar seasoning?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from dried thyme, sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. It adds a tangy, herbal flavor to dishes.