When I first made this Grilled Zaatar Chicken, I couldn’t believe how easy and delicious it turned out! The combination of the earthy zaatar spice blend, juicy chicken, and that hint of smoky char from the grill is a match made in heaven.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough for a weekend barbecue yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, the lemony brightness and subtle garlic kick really elevate the whole dish.
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat. Whether you serve it with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled veggies, it always hits the spot. Come on, grab your zaatar, and let’s fire up the grill!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe has plenty of reasons to get excited about, and here’s why it’s worth trying:
1. Packed with Flavor
The zaatar spice blend is what makes this recipe stand out. With its mix of thyme, oregano, sesame, and the tangy hint of sumac, it creates a bold, fragrant marinade. Combine that with garlic and lemon, and you’ll taste flavor in every bite.
2. Quick and Easy
No complicated steps here! This dish requires minimal prep and can be ready in no time. Even marinating the chicken is a breeze, making it a stress-free option for weeknight dinners or quick get-togethers.
3. Healthy and Versatile
This recipe works great for different diets. It’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adjust for low-carb or dairy-free preferences. Plus, chicken breast is a lean protein, making it a wholesome choice.
4. Customizable for Any Palate
Craving more spice? Add a dash of chili. Want to lean into citrusy flavors? Squeeze some extra lemon juice! This dish is super adaptable to your taste preferences.
5. Perfect for Grilling Season
There’s nothing like the smoky flavor of grilled chicken. This recipe shines best on an open flame, and the grill marks make it just as beautiful as it is tasty.
With all these reasons, you know you’re in for a treat!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- Olive oil
- Zaatar spice blend
- Garlic (minced)
- Lemon (juiced)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Ingredient Variations
- For a dairy-free option – This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but feel free to double-check your zaatar mix for ingredients like powdered yogurt.
- Lower sodium – Reduce the salt, and you won’t lose any of the bold flavors.
- Extra spice – Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbal notes – Toss in fresh rosemary or basil to add more depth to the marinade.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl – For preparing the marinade.
- Plastic bag or shallow dish – To marinate the chicken.
- Grill or Grill Pan – For cooking the chicken.
- Tongs – For flipping and handling the chicken.
- Knife – For mincing garlic and slicing garnishes.
- Meat thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Zaatar Chicken?
Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps to prepare a mouthwatering meal!
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade 🥣
Start by combining olive oil, zaatar spice blend, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well until it forms a flavorful marinade.
Step 2. Marinate the Chicken 🫙
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes (or for maximum flavor, marinate overnight).
Step 3. Preheat Your Grill 🔥
Heat your grill to medium-high (around 375-400°F). Don’t forget to oil the grates. This prevents sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks!
Step 4. Grill the Chicken 🍗
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Place it on the hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with leftover marinade along the way. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done (165°F internal temperature).
Step 5. Rest, Garnish, and Serve 🌿
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for that gorgeous, zesty finish.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room Temperature Chicken – Always bring your chicken to room temperature before grilling. It helps the meat cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on the internal temperature. Overcooked chicken loses its juicy tenderness.
- Opt for Overnight Marination – If time allows, marinating overnight makes the flavors pop even more.
- Clean Grill Grates – This ensures neat grill marks and prevents sticking.
How to Serve Grilled Zaatar Chicken?
Make your meal stand out with these serving ideas:
- Pair with rice – A simple side of basmati or lemon rice complements the bold spices.
- Go Mediterranean – Serve with hummus, pita bread, or a cucumber yogurt dip for a full Middle Eastern spread.
- Grill veggies alongside – Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers make fantastic sidekicks.
- Fresh salads – A crisp salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta adds freshness to the plate.
For an added visual touch, sprinkle extra zaatar or sumac over the chicken before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights for one chicken breast:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 16g
Make Ahead and Storage
This dish can be prepped ahead to save time or stored for future meals.
Refrigeration
Once cooked, store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Grilled chicken freezes well! Wrap individual portions tightly, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
This Grilled Zaatar Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that works for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every juicy, aromatic bite!
See how it’s made in this video:
Grilled Zaatar Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- Olive oil
- Zaatar spice blend
- Garlic minced
- Lemon juiced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Start by combining olive oil, zaatar spice blend, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well until it forms a flavorful marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes (or for maximum flavor, marinate overnight).
- Heat your grill to medium-high (around 375-400°F). Don’t forget to oil the grates. This prevents sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks!
- Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Place it on the hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with leftover marinade along the way. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done (165°F internal temperature).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for that gorgeous, zesty finish.
Notes
- Room Temperature Chicken – Always bring your chicken to room temperature before grilling. It helps the meat cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on the internal temperature. Overcooked chicken loses its juicy tenderness.
- Opt for Overnight Marination – If time allows, marinating overnight makes the flavors pop even more.
- Clean Grill Grates – This ensures neat grill marks and prevents sticking.
