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Za’atar Chicken and Rice Pilaf

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This Za’atar Chicken and Rice Pilaf is a Mediterranean-inspired one-skillet meal featuring tender za’atar-spiced chicken thighs atop fragrant basmati rice, toasted pine nuts, and herbs. Baked to perfection and finished with lemon and optional yogurt, it’s a flavorful, healthy comfort food perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 2 tablespoons za’atar seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the rice pilaf:

  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth

  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional for garnish)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or labneh (optional for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rub chicken thighs with za’atar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight.

  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until browned. Flip and cook another 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

  3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened.

  4. Stir in rinsed rice and toast for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.

  5. Nestle chicken thighs on top of the rice. Cover with lid or foil and transfer to a 375°F (190°C) oven.

  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

  7. Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with pine nuts, parsley, and pomegranate seeds.

  8. Serve with lemon wedges and a dollop of Greek yogurt or labneh if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken thighs with boneless breasts or drumsticks if preferred.

  • For extra zest, stir lemon zest into the rice before baking.

  • Add chopped spinach or kale to the rice for a veggie boost.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/zaatar-chicken-and-rice-pilaf/