Za'atar Chicken and Rice Recipe

This delicious Za'atar Chicken and Rice recipe taps into our Middle-Eastern roots. It has a great balance of savory, tangy, and earthy flavors. It's super versatile, so you can also add a drizzle of olive oil or tahini on top if you like! Enjoy cooking!

Za'atar Chicken and Rice Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Zaatar Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp za'atar spice blend (store-bought or homemade – see below for a recipe)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

  
  

For the Rice:

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)

• 3 cups chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

• 2-3 whole cloves (optional)

• Salt to taste

  
  

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• Toasted pine nuts or almonds

• Lemon wedges

  
  

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, za'atar, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.

• Rub this marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully coated.

• Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.

  
  

2. Cook the Rice:

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

• In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

• Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it in the oil and onion mixture.

• Pour in the chicken broth (or water), and add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and a pinch of salt.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

• Once cooked, remove the rice from heat, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork.

  
  

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add a little olive oil to the pan (if needed) and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on the outside. If using chicken thighs, they may take a bit longer.

• After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly or serving it whole.

  
  

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Serve the za'atar chicken on a bed of the fragrant rice.

• Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, toasted pine nuts or almonds, and a few wedges of lemon.

  
  

5. Enjoy!

• This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of yogurt, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables.

  
  

Homemade Za'atar Spice Blend:

If you'd like to make your own za'atar, here’s a simple blend:

• 2 tbsp dried oregano or thyme

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted, if possible)

• 1 tbsp sumac

• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional)

• Salt to taste

  
  

Mix all the ingredients together and store in an airtight container.