Za’atar and Lemon Roasted Chicken: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
Za’atar and Lemon Roasted Chicken is a sumptuous, aromatic dish that hails from the Mediterranean region. Infused with the unique flavors of za’atar – a blend of thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds – and the bright zest of lemon, this roast chicken is both fragrant and flavorful. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or an impressive meal when entertaining guests, this dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad.
### Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
– 3 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
– 2 lemons
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat** your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the chicken.** Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
3. **Make the marinade.** In a small bowl, combine the za’atar spice blend, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until it forms a paste.
4. **Lemon zest and juice.** Zest one lemon and juice both of them. Set aside.
5. **Season the chicken.** Rub the za’atar mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin and inside the cavity as well. Pour the lemon juice and zest over the chicken for extra flavor.
6. **Roast the chicken.** Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
7. **Rest and serve.** Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
8. **Garnish and enjoy.** Transfer the carved chicken to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your preferred sides.
Enjoy your deliciously fragrant and juicy Za’atar and Lemon Roasted Chicken!
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