Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors while being comforting and incredibly satisfying, the Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of za’atar, sumac, and lemon, roasted to golden perfection with crispy skin. Every bite dances with tangy brightness and aromatic spices, making it a unforgettable meal that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the chicken thighs provide richness and moisture, while the za’atar and sumac bring bold, earthy, and citrusy notes that elevate the dish beyond ordinary roasted chicken.

• Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and crispy texture.
• Red onion: Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully while roasting.
• Garlic cloves: Minced finely to infuse the marinade with savory depth.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Helps coat the chicken and vegetables, ensuring a crispy roast.
• Lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that balances the spices.
• Lemon slices: Roast alongside the chicken to add extra citrus aroma and garnish.
• Za’atar: The star spice blend that introduces herbaceous, nutty, and tangy flavors.
• Sumac: A tart, red spice that complements the lemon and adds vibrant color.
• 7-Spice blend: Adds warmth and complexity (notes below for homemade mix).
• Salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.

How to Make Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken thighs, sliced red onions, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon slices, za’atar, sumac, 7-spice, salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a large bowl. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in the fragrant marinade. For best results, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours. This step infuses the meat with gorgeous flavor and ensures juicy tenderness after roasting.

Step 2: Prepare to Roast

When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated chicken and onions along with all of the marinade to a baking sheet, braiser, or any large oven-safe dish. Make sure the chicken sits in a single layer so each piece roasts evenly and crisps up beautifully.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast the chicken for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 170°F (77°C). The skin should be deeply golden and pleasingly crisp. If you want even more crispiness, pop the chicken under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. That final step brings an irresistible texture contrast to the dish.

How to Serve Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken to add a pop of green and fresh herbal brightness. You can also scatter some extra lemon slices to amplify the citrus notes and brighten up the presentation.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, complementary sides like fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or warm flatbreads to scoop up all those delicious juices. For a fresh counterpoint, consider a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a dollop of creamy hummus on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe family style on a large platter alongside the roasted lemon slices and caramelized onions. For a vibrant twist, plate the chicken over a bed of herby couscous or alongside a colorful tabbouleh salad. This is a dish that looks as joyful on the plate as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cooked chicken thighs by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to preserve the crispy skin, or warm in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the skin soggy and the meat dry.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs will work fine, but bone-in thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during roasting, plus the skin crisps up beautifully.

What if I don’t have za’atar or sumac?

Za’atar is a unique spice blend, and sumac offers a distinct tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try substituting with a mix of thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and a bit of lemon zest for za’atar, and lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for sumac.

Is it better to marinate the chicken overnight?

Marinating for 1-2 hours is perfect to let the flavors penetrate, but overnight marinating will deepen the taste even more if you have the time.

Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting?

Absolutely! Grilling will add a smoky char that pairs nicely with the spices, just watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out the chicken.

What is the 7-Spice blend mentioned in the recipe?

7-Spice is a fragrant blend often including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, and black pepper. It complements the za’atar and sumac by adding warmth and complexity.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Za’atar Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Sumac Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The balance of zesty citrus, aromatic spices, and succulent chicken is just irresistible. Once you taste it, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family anytime.

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