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Za’atar Chicken

  • Author: madison
  • Prep Time: 120 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 165 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Paleo

Description

A flavorful and aromatic za’atar chicken dish, marinated to perfection and roasted for a juicy, tender meal that celebrates the harmony of spices and lemon.


Ingredients

  • 5 chicken legs (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

  1. In a large bowl, combine the za’atar seasoning, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic paste, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a marinade.
  2. Trim any unwanted fat and excess skin from the chicken legs. With a sharp knife, make three incisions on each leg.
  3. Add the chicken legs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
  4. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
  5. Place the sliced onions and squeezed lemon halves in a rimmed baking tray. Lay the marinated chicken legs on top.
  6. Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), basting halfway through cooking.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end. Ensure chicken is stored properly if leftovers remain.