If you are craving a dish that brings bold, vibrant Middle Eastern flavors to your dinner table with an effortless twist, then this Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Tender chicken breasts, perfectly seasoned with fragrant za’atar and tangy lemon, are complemented by a creamy, herb-filled yogurt sauce that adds freshness and richness in every bite. Easy yet impressively flavorful, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels both exotic and absolutely comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe plays a starring role, from the aromatic za’atar spice mix to the creamy full-fat Greek yogurt. These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and color that truly elevates the dish.
- 20 ounces Chicken breast: Choose uniform, boneless chicken breasts for even cooking and juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons Za’atar spice: The earthy, herby star seasoning that defines this dish’s signature flavor.
- 4 tablespoons Lemon juice (divided): Adds bright acidity to tenderize the chicken and balance the spices.
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced): Infuses the marinade and yogurt sauce with fragrant depth.
- 1 tablespoon Finely chopped chives: Brings a mild oniony brightness to both marinade and sauce.
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (divided): Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper (divided): Adds just the right hint of spice and warmth.
- ½ cup Plain Greek yogurt (full fat recommended): Creates a rich, creamy sauce that cools and complements the za’atar’s boldness.
- 1 tablespoon Finely chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the yogurt sauce beautifully.
How to Make Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Even Out the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into four uniform 5-ounce portions to ensure they cook evenly. If any pieces are too thick or uneven, slice them horizontally or gently pound them with a mallet while covered in plastic wrap. This step guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken without any overcooked edges.
Step 2: Marinate with Lemon Juice
Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour over 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Toss the pieces until they are fully coated. This bright and tangy juice not only imparts flavor but also helps tenderize the meat for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Za’atar and Aromatics
Sprinkle the za’atar spice, half of the minced garlic, half of the chopped chives, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper onto the chicken. Toss gently to distribute the spices evenly, making sure each piece is fully coated with the vibrant herb mix that makes this recipe so special.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Marinate
Allow the chicken to sit and marinate for 20 minutes. This resting time lets all the spices and lemon juice penetrate the meat, developing layers of flavor that will shine through when cooked.
Step 5: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken marinates, combine the Greek yogurt with the remaining garlic, chives, salt, pepper, and freshly chopped parsley in a small bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended. This sauce is the creamy, herbaceous counterpoint to the spiced chicken and cannot be skipped.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side. You’ll want to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee it is cooked through but still tender and juicy.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once cooked, slice the chicken and plate it beautifully. Drizzle generously with the luscious yogurt sauce, and get ready to savor every bite of your Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe masterpiece!
How to Serve Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some additional chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of za’atar on top for a pop of color and flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the plate and gives guests the option to add a fresh splash if desired.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or fluffy couscous. These mild accompaniments complement the bold spices and creamy sauce perfectly without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken as part of a mezze platter with olives, grilled vegetables, and other Mediterranean treats. Or, pile slices onto flatbread, drizzle with extra yogurt sauce, and roll it up for a delicious wrap ready for lunch or a casual dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and yogurt sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts before adding the yogurt sauce. Wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding freshly made yogurt sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in the oven to prevent drying out. Add the yogurt sauce fresh after reheating for the best balance of creaminess and tang.
FAQs
What is za’atar spice, and where can I find it?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from thyme, oregano, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. You can find it in specialty grocery stores, Middle Eastern markets, or online. It offers a unique tangy, earthy flavor that’s essential to this recipe.
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay juicy during cooking. Just adjust cooking times slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?
You can use regular plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt’s thickness gives the sauce its signature creamy texture. If using regular yogurt, drain it through a cheesecloth for a thicker consistency.
How spicy is za’atar chicken?
Za’atar is not spicy hot but rather herbaceous with a slight tang from sumac. This dish is very flavorful without being spicy, making it suitable for all palates.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or firm tofu and follow the same marinade and sauce steps. The za’atar and yogurt combination is delicious with many plant-based proteins.
Final Thoughts
Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels both familiar and delightfully new. It’s a beautiful way to bring fresh Middle Eastern flavors into your home cooking without fuss or fancy ingredients. I truly encourage you to give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Za’atar Chicken with Yogurt Sauce recipe features tender, marinated chicken breasts infused with the aromatic Middle Eastern za’atar spice blend. Cooked quickly in a pan, the chicken is served with a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce made from Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and garlic, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish ideal for a quick weeknight meal or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 20 ounces Chicken breast (4 portions of 5 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons Za’atar spice
- 4 tablespoons Lemon juice (divided)
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced, divided)
- 1 tablespoon Finely chopped chives (divided)
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (divided)
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper (divided)
Yogurt Sauce
- ½ cup Plain Greek yogurt (full fat recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Finely chopped fresh parsley
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken Portions: Cut chicken into four 5-ounce portions. Ensure uniform thickness for even cooking by slicing thick breasts in half horizontally or pounding them gently with a mallet covered in plastic wrap.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large bowl and add 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the citrus juice.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle the za’atar spice, half the minced garlic, half the chopped chives, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper over the chicken. Toss well so the chicken is fully coated with the seasoning.
- Rest and Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors of the spices and lemon juice.
- Make Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, remaining garlic, chives, parsley, remaining salt, and pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed into a smooth sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook 3-5 minutes on each side, until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and arrange on a plate. Drizzle generously with the prepared yogurt sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use full-fat Greek yogurt in the sauce to add richness.
- Adjust marinating time longer for more intense flavor if desired (up to 1 hour).
- Ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for food safety.
- You can serve this dish with warm pita bread, salad, or rice for a complete meal.
- If za’atar spice is unavailable, a mix of thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac can be used as a substitute.
