Enjoy the flavors of the Middle East with these delicious oven-roasted Za'atar chicken breasts. Za'atar is a fragrant and savory spice blend that pairs perfectly with chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve the chicken with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Za'atar spice blend
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Za'atar spice blend, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the Za'atar mixture over them. Make sure to coat all sides of the chicken evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve hot.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Za'atar is a popular spice blend in Middle Eastern cuisine, typically made from a mixture of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, and sesame seeds.
The combination of Za'atar and lemon juice gives the chicken a tangy and aromatic flavor.
Roasting the chicken breasts in the oven helps to lock in moisture and ensures a juicy and tender result.