Go Back
+ servings
Za'atar Chicken and Rice

Za'atar Chicken and Rice: A Savory Middle Eastern Comfort

This Za'atar Chicken and Rice combines marinated chicken with aromatic basmati rice, ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a family meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Substitution: Chicken breast can be used for a leaner option.
  • 1 cup Yogurt Substitution: Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Za’atar Seasoning Can be made from scratch or purchased.
  • 1 teaspoon Allspice Substitution: Use a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves if unavailable.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Interchangeable with parsley.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Interchangeable with cilantro.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 1 juice of Lime or Lemon Adds acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for the marinade.
For the Rice Pilaf
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Known for its fluffy texture.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Sliced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Optional.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes Optional.
For the Garlic Yogurt Dip
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt or Labneh Cooling dip.
  • 1 clove Additional Garlic For the dip.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Skewers

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, za’atar seasoning, allspice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, parsley, salt, pepper, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well to create a creamy marinade. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably up to 24 hours.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
  3. While the chicken cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
  4. Next, add chopped parsley, allspice, rinsed basmati rice, turmeric, salt, and a dash of red chili flakes, mixing until well incorporated.
  5. Pour in the water, bringing the mixture to a lively boil. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. After this time, wrap the lid in a kitchen towel and let the rice steam for an additional 10-15 minutes until fluffy and fully cooked.
  6. Once both the chicken and rice are ready, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve the chicken skewers atop the aromatic rice pilaf, showcasing that beautiful charred exterior. Spoon a creamy garlic yogurt dip beside the dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken up to 24 hours and rinse rice before cooking for fluffy grains.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!