Save Discover the rich and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with these Zaatar Tahini Chicken Thighs. This dish features bone-in chicken thighs roasted until the skin is perfectly golden and crispy, then finished with a creamy, garlic-infused tahini sauce. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 1 hour and 45 minutes, it is an impressive yet easy-to-make main dish that is both gluten-free and paleo-friendly.
Save The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the robust, spiced chicken skin and the smooth, cooling sesame sauce. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or preparing a nourishing family meal, these chicken thighs offer a vibrant culinary experience with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp zaatar spice blend, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Tahini-Garlic Sauce: ⅓ cup tahini (sesame paste), 2 garlic cloves (finely minced), 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tbsp water (plus more as needed), 1 tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp sea salt
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Step 2
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil. Add zaatar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly.
- Step 3
- Arrange the chicken thighs, skin side up, on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a large ovenproof skillet.
- Step 4
- Roast for 45–55 minutes, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 5
- While the chicken roasts, prepare the tahini-garlic sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, water, olive oil, and salt until smooth and creamy. If needed, add more water 1 tsp at a time to reach a pourable consistency.
- Step 6
- When the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with tahini-garlic sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the zaatar and garlic to penetrate the meat deeply for a more intense flavor profile.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute boneless thighs if preferred; simply reduce the cooking time to approximately 30–35 minutes to ensure they remain juicy and tender.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these zaatar-spiced thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple, fresh cucumber-tomato salad to complement the richness of the tahini sauce.
Save With its bold Middle Eastern influences and luscious finish, this Zaatar Tahini Chicken recipe is a simple way to bring vibrant, gourmet flavors to your dinner table any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to marinate the chicken?
Combine the olive oil, zaatar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat the chicken thighs evenly. Marinate covered in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- → How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
Roast until the skin is golden and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced.
- → Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the tahini-garlic sauce in advance and refrigerate. Stir gently before serving and add water if it thickens too much.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, a cucumber-tomato salad, or simple steamed grains complement the bold, tangy flavors nicely.
- → Is it possible to use boneless thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work well. Reduce cooking time to 30–35 minutes to avoid drying out the meat.
- → How can I adjust the sauce consistency?
Add water one teaspoon at a time to the tahini-garlic mixture until it reaches a smooth, pourable texture.
