Discover how to make za’atar chicken and rice, a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish with tender marinated chicken, fragrant rice pilaf, and creamy garlic yogurt dip. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and a little out of the ordinary, za’atar chicken and rice is the perfect choice. If you enjoy unique twists on classics, you might also love my Mediterranean chicken rice recipe which has a similar balance of spices and freshness.
This dish combines tender marinated chicken thighs seasoned with earthy za’atar, warm spices, and a hint of citrus. Pair that with a fluffy rice pilaf and a tangy garlic yogurt dip, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s not just tasty, it’s also easy to prepare on a weeknight. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, cook the rice while it’s sizzling away, and have dinner ready in under an hour.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that feels restaurant-worthy but doesn’t require you to spend all evening in the kitchen? This za’atar chicken and rice recipe checks all those boxes and more.
Table of contents
Main Ingredients for Za’atar Chicken and Rice
The magic of this dish lies in its blend of simple, fresh, and aromatic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the star components:
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender, and perfect for soaking up marinades. Chicken thighs hold flavor beautifully. They’re also the star in my stick of butter chicken and rice, a cozy comfort dish that’s rich and hearty.
- Za’atar Seasoning: A Middle Eastern spice blend made with dried thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds. It adds a tangy, herby, and nutty flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: Used in the marinade to tenderize the chicken and give it a creamy base.
- Garlic: Lots of fresh garlic adds depth and warmth.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and parsley bring brightness and color to the dish.
- Lemon or Lime Juice: A squeeze of citrus ties all the flavors together and adds freshness.
- Allspice: Just a touch brings warmth and that classic Middle Eastern flavor note.
- Olive Oil: Essential for cooking and for binding flavors in the marinade.
For the rice pilaf, you’ll need basmati rice, red onion, turmeric, chili flakes, and parsley. These give the rice its vibrant color and subtle spice.
Finally, the garlic yogurt dip is made with just yogurt, garlic, citrus juice, and salt. Simple but powerful!
Additional Ingredients & Substitutes
While the main ingredients form the backbone of za’atar chicken and rice, you can add or substitute depending on what you have on hand.
- Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, swap thighs for chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: If you’re looking for a healthier twist, use brown rice or quinoa in place of basmati. Cooking times will vary.
- Mint: Adding fresh mint leaves alongside parsley makes the dish extra refreshing.
- Vegetables: Roast some bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant alongside the chicken for a complete one-pan meal. If you prefer a sweet-savory combo, try my pineapple chicken and rice, which balances tropical sweetness with savory chicken.
- Tahini Sauce: Drizzle a little tahini sauce over the top for nutty richness.
These additions keep the recipe flexible. You don’t have to stick with a rigid formula. Think of this dish as a base that you can make your own with a few easy swaps.
Expert Tips for the Best Za’atar Chicken and Rice
Cooking za’atar chicken and rice is straightforward, but a few expert tips will make your dish truly shine.
- Marinate Longer if Possible
Thirty minutes is the minimum, but if you can marinate the chicken overnight, the flavors will deepen beautifully. - Rinse and Soak the Rice
Basmati rice benefits from a quick rinse and a 15-minute soak. This removes excess starch and helps the grains cook up fluffy instead of sticky. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When searing chicken, give each piece space. Crowding traps steam and keeps the chicken from getting that nice golden-brown crust. - Taste as You Go
Za’atar blends vary in flavor strength. Taste your marinade before adding the chicken, and adjust with a bit more lemon or garlic if needed. - Control the Spice Level
Chili flakes bring heat, but you can increase or decrease to suit your preference. My kids like just a little kick, so I go light. For another family-friendly option, check out my sweet-and-sour chicken bowls which are tangy, colorful, and kid-approved. - Make Extra Garlic Yogurt
Trust me, you’ll want more. The dip pairs not only with the chicken but also with the rice, pita bread, or even roasted veggies. - Garnish for Freshness
A final sprinkle of parsley or cilantro adds brightness and makes the dish look extra inviting.
Cooking is about balance. With this recipe, you’re balancing earthy spices with fresh herbs, creamy yogurt with fluffy rice, and tangy citrus with savory chicken. Keep those contrasts in mind, and your za’atar chicken and rice will turn out beautifully every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
Mix yogurt, za’atar, allspice, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. - Cook the Rice Pilaf
Heat olive oil in a pot, add sliced onion, and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic, spices, parsley, and chili flakes. Add rinsed basmati rice, sauté briefly, then add water and salt. Simmer covered for 15 minutes until fluffy. - Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. - Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Dip
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Chill until ready to serve. - Assemble and Serve
Fluff the rice, plate it with chicken on top, and serve with garlic yogurt dip on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Additional Guide: Variations & Techniques
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
- One-Pot Method: After searing the chicken, add it back into the pot with the rice and let everything cook together. This makes the flavors mingle even more.
- Grill Option: Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with chickpeas or halloumi cheese. The marinade works beautifully on both.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store cooked chicken and rice separately in containers. The garlic yogurt dip can be made fresh in under 5 minutes whenever you’re ready to eat. Or, if you want a hands-off version, try my slow cooker arroz con pollo for a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
These little tweaks make za’atar chicken and rice a versatile dish you’ll want to make over and over again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Za’atar Chicken and Rice
Absolutely! Za’atar pairs beautifully with chicken. Its earthy herbs, nutty sesame seeds, and tangy sumac bring out the savory richness of the meat. That’s why dishes like za’atar chicken and rice are so popular.
Yes. Sumac adds a lemony brightness without the acidity of citrus juice. It’s often used in Middle Eastern cooking to cut through the richness of roasted or grilled chicken.
Definitely! Za’atar gives plain rice an herby, slightly tangy upgrade. You can stir a little into cooked rice or even add some to the cooking water for a subtle infusion. It works wonderfully alongside chicken, lamb, or roasted veggies.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a complete guide to making za’atar chicken and rice. This dish is flavorful, nourishing, and just different enough to bring excitement to your dinner table. The marinated chicken, fragrant rice pilaf, and creamy garlic yogurt dip come together in a way that feels both comforting and adventurous.
What I love most about cooking meals like this is that they’re not just recipes. They’re experiences. They’re the kind of dishes that make your family linger around the table, maybe share a few laughs, and definitely go back for seconds.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook for dinner, give this recipe a try. And if you’re in the mood for a nostalgic classic, my chicken and rice casserole is another comforting favorite worth bookmarking.
Happy cooking, friend. Until next time!
Za’atar Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Skillet
- Cooking Pot
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken thighs chopped into medium pieces
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tbsp za’atar seasoning
- 3/4 tsp allspice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 3/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 lime or lemon juice only
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Rice Pilaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp allspice pinch
- 1/4 tsp turmeric pinch
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1.5 cups basmati rice rinsed and soaked
- 3 cups water
- 3/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
For the Garlic Yogurt Dip
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or labneh
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 lemon or lime juice only
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Mix yogurt, za’atar, allspice, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pot, add sliced onion, and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic, allspice, turmeric, parsley, and chili flakes.
- Add rinsed basmati rice, sauté for 1–2 minutes, then add water and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high. Cook marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to make the garlic yogurt dip. Chill until serving.
- Fluff the rice, plate with chicken on top, and serve with garlic yogurt dip. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Notes
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