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A close-up of a golden-brown roasted chicken breast topped with fresh green herbs and a drizzle of vibrant lemon sauce, garnished with lemon wedges and sprinkled with za'atar spice. The dish is presented on a rustic wooden plate with a side of colorful salad and fresh herbs, highlighting its appetizing appearance and textured surface.

Simple & Delicious Za’atar Lemon Chicken: Your New Go-To Dinner!

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Simple & Delicious Za’atar Lemon Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make Middle Eastern-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with aromatic za’atar spice, marinated in lemon juice, and cooked to golden perfection, delivering bright citrus notes and savory herbs in every bite. Easy to prepare and quite versatile, this recipe is a wholesome and satisfying choice for anyone looking to incorporate bold flavors into their healthy meal rotation.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the za’atar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  2. Place the seasoned chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, and add the minced garlic. Marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Just before removing the chicken from the skillet, squeeze fresh lemon zest and a little more lemon juice over the top for added brightness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet. This dish can be prepared in advance for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with garnish
  • Calories: 250 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg