Za’atar Roasted Chicken with Herbed Tahini Sauce

Za’atar Roasted Chicken with Herbed Tahini Sauce

Za’atar Roasted Chicken with Herbed Tahini Sauce is a delicious and savory Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines the aromatic flavors of za’atar seasoning with the creamy richness of tahini sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests. The chicken is marinated with a blend of spices and herbs, then roasted to perfection. Serve it with a drizzle of herbed tahini sauce, adding a delightful creamy and tangy contrast.

Ingredients:

For the Za’atar Roasted Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons za’atar seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Herbed Tahini Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, za’atar seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best results.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Roast the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the Herbed Tahini Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, water, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh parsley, and fresh dill until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Arrange the chicken thighs on a serving platter, drizzle with the herbed tahini sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!