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Baked Zaatar Yogurt Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 23 reviews

Baked Zaatar Yogurt Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish where succulent chicken thighs or breasts are marinated in a tangy Greek yogurt mixture infused with zaatar seasoning, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, then oven-baked to juicy perfection. This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, served alongside couscous and warm pita bread to soak up the aromatic juices.

  • Total Time: 9 hours 55 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 lbs (8 pieces) boneless chicken thighs or breasts (skin on or off)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped
  • 2 tbsp zaatar seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or Aleppo flakes)

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Marinade. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed garlic, zaatar seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until fully combined to create the marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken. Place the chicken pieces into a gallon-size plastic food storage bag or a large plastic container. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the container tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.
  3. Prepare for Baking. Lightly coat the inside of a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and arrange the pieces in a single layer within the prepared baking dish.
  4. Bake the Chicken. Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the chicken develops a golden brown color and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  5. Garnish and Serve. Once baked, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve alongside couscous and warm pita bread to enjoy the flavorful juices and complete the meal.

Notes

  • To check doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • This recipe can be prepared with chicken thighs for more juiciness or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight, but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient.
  • Serve with couscous and warm pita to soak up the delicious marinade juices.
  • Zaatar seasoning typically contains a blend of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt; adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/baked-zaatar-yogurt-chicken-recipe/