grilled zaatar chicken

Sofia

Juicy, smoky grilled chicken marinated in a tangy, herbaceous za’atar blend. A simple yet flavor-packed Middle Eastern dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or meal prep.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 55

Servings: 4

Course: lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
2 garlic cloves minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh parsley or mint chopped (for garnish)

Method

Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, za’atar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is lightly charred.
Rest and Serve
Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.

Notes

Za’atar Substitute: If you don’t have za’atar, mix dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and oregano.
Great for Salads & Wraps: Slice leftovers into pita wraps or toss into Mediterranean salads.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of harissa paste to the marinade.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently or enjoy cold.