Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds throw a spontaneous dance party. Imagine tender chicken thighs, marinated in a herby, zesty blend of za’atar spices, then roasted to golden perfection. The intoxicating aroma fills your kitchen, making even the neighbors peek through the window in envy. Is it possible to feel hungry just by reading this? Yes, yes it is!

Let’s dive into a little story here. Picture this: It’s a chilly Sunday evening, and I’m huddled up in my kitchen like a cozy bear preparing for winter. I decided it was time to unleash my culinary prowess (or at least attempt to). Enter Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic—a dish meant for family gatherings or those nights when you want to impress your friends without burning down the house. Trust me; this dish will have everyone begging for seconds and asking for your secret recipe.

Ingredients for Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful; opt for skin-on if you want extra crispiness.
• Za’atar Spice Blend: A magical mix of herbs that brings Middle Eastern flair; it’s usually made of thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac.
• Fresh Garlic: Use at least four cloves because garlic is life! Chop them finely for maximum flavor impact.
• Tahini Paste: This delicious sesame seed paste adds creaminess and richness; look for smooth varieties without added sugars.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; don’t reach for that bottled stuff—your chicken deserves better!
• Olive Oil: A must-have for marinating the chicken; it helps in browning and adds flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning that elevates all dishes—don’t skip this part!

For the sauce:

• Water or Broth: To thin out the tahini sauce; choose vegetable broth for an added flavor boost.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is like turning on the sun for your chicken—ensuring it gets beautifully roasted.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, za’atar spice blend, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss in those lovely chicken thighs until they’re completely coated in this flavorful concoction. Let them marinate while you take a quick dance break (about 30 minutes works wonders).

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick spray. This ensures our darling chicken doesn’t stick like an unwanted guest at a party.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

Place your marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish. Roast them in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Pro tip: If you want extra crispy skin, broil them for an additional minute or two—just keep an eye on them!

Step 5: Whip Up That Tahini Sauce

While the chicken roasts away like it’s on vacation, whisk together tahini paste with water or broth until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed—it should be drizzly but not too runny!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once your chicken has perfectly roasted to crispy goodness, take it out of the oven with pride! Drizzle that luscious tahini sauce over each piece before serving it hot alongside some veggies or rice.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of these Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic while basking in glory knowing you just created something utterly delicious!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve mouthwatering Za’atar Chicken Thighs, start by marinating the chicken. While it soaks up that zesty goodness, prepare your sides and sauces. Sear the chicken for a crispy skin, then finish cooking in the oven for juicy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breasts or even turkey if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with additional spices like cumin or coriander, or add fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Za’atar Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious.

My friend once told me that these Za’atar Chicken Thighs were so good they made her consider inviting me over just to cook! That’s when I knew I had perfected this recipe!

FAQs :

What are the best side dishes to serve with Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic?

Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with a refreshing tabbouleh salad made from parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and zucchini, also complement the flavors beautifully. For a warm option, fluffy couscous or quinoa seasoned with herbs can enhance the meal. Don’t forget a side of warm pita bread for dipping in the tahini sauce!

How can I store leftovers of Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic?

To ensure the freshness of your Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken thighs. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.

Can I make Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic using boneless chicken thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe if you prefer a quicker cooking time. Just adjust the cooking duration accordingly, as boneless thighs typically cook faster than bone-in ones. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The za’atar seasoning will still infuse delicious flavors into the meat, making it tender and flavorful.

What is za’atar seasoning and how is it used in this recipe?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically contains thyme, oregano, marjoram, sesame seeds, and sumac. It adds a unique herby flavor profile to dishes, making it perfect for seasoning meats like chicken thighs in this recipe. When using za’atar seasoning on your chicken thighs, it enhances their taste while adding an aromatic touch. This blend is not only versatile but also promotes a delightful Mediterranean flair in various culinary creations.

Conclusion for Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic :

Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic is a flavorful dish that combines aromatic spices with rich ingredients like tahini. This recipe is simple to prepare yet offers bold flavors that impress any guest. Pairing it with fresh salads or grains enhances its enjoyment while keeping your meal balanced. Storing leftovers is easy too, allowing you to savor this delightful dish beyond just one meal. Enjoy creating this flavorful experience in your kitchen!

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Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Za’atar Chicken Thighs with Tahini and Garlic is a delightful dish that transforms juicy chicken thighs into a flavor-packed experience. Marinated in a fragrant za’atar spice blend and roasted to golden perfection, these thighs are complemented by a creamy tahini sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this easy recipe will impress your guests while tantalizing your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 tbsp za'atar spice blend
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp tahini paste
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup water or vegetable broth for sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, za'atar, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Arrange marinated chicken thighs skin-side up and roast for 35-40 minutes until golden brown (internal temperature of at least 165°F).
4. While chicken roasts, whisk tahini with water or broth until smooth; adjust consistency as needed.
5. Serve chicken hot with tahini sauce drizzled over the top.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: - For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking. - Substitute bone-in thighs with boneless for quicker cooking. - Pair with sides like tabbouleh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.