Description
How to make za’atar chicken and rice with aromatic spices and fluffy basmati that brings Mediterranean comfort to your weeknight table.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Base
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Garnish and Finishing
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Extra za’atar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine chicken thighs with za’atar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic in a bowl. Mix well to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
- Prepare Rice: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until golden and softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in turmeric and cinnamon until fragrant.
- Toast Rice: Add basmati rice to the skillet and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted and coated with the spiced oil. This step prevents mushy rice and adds nutty flavor.
- Add Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during cooking or you’ll lose steam.
- Cook Chicken: While rice cooks, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature.
- Rest Rice: Remove rice from heat and let stand covered for 10 minutes. This allows the grains to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid for perfect fluffy texture.
- Serve Together: Fluff rice with a fork and serve topped with sliced chicken, toasted pine nuts, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges. Sprinkle extra za’atar over everything before serving.
Notes
- Toast rice in oil before adding liquid to prevent mushy texture and add nutty flavor.
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days; flavors improve overnight.
- Substitute chicken breasts for thighs but reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.
- Make za’atar blend fresh with thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac for best flavor.
- Let rice rest covered for 10 minutes after cooking for perfect fluffy grains.
- Serve with cucumber yogurt salad and warm pita for complete Mediterranean experience.
Allergy Information: Sesame
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 32g