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Zaatar Chicken Thighs with Tahini Sauce Recipe

4.6 from 53 reviews

This recipe features succulent chicken thighs seasoned with fragrant zaatar and roasted to perfection, then drizzled with a creamy garlic tahini sauce. It’s a delicious Mediterannean-inspired dish that combines bold flavors with simple preparation, perfect for a flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

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Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Tahini Sauce

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons water (to thin sauce)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crisping. In a bowl, toss the chicken with the zaatar spice blend and olive oil until evenly coated.
  2. Roast the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet. Roast in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
  3. Make the Tahini Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, whisk together the tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
  4. Serve: Once the chicken is done, transfer to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the prepared tahini sauce. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, allow chicken to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before roasting.
  • You can adjust the thickness of the tahini sauce by varying the amount of water added.
  • Zaatar can be found at Middle Eastern markets or specialty spice stores.
  • Leftover chicken and tahini sauce make a great filling for pita sandwiches.

Keywords: zaatar chicken, tahini sauce, roasted chicken thighs, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean chicken