Description
Crispy Za’atar Chicken and Cauliflower is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and crispy textures. Bone-in chicken pieces are marinated in a fragrant Za’atar spice blend—an aromatic mix of thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and oregano—giving the chicken a unique tangy and herbal flavor. Roasted alongside the chicken, cauliflower florets absorb the same aromatic spices, developing a golden, caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender inside. The result is a crispy, flavorful chicken with perfectly roasted cauliflower, making it a hearty and healthy meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more elaborate gathering, this dish is full of bold flavors, rich textures, and vibrant colors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts – The skin-on chicken helps retain moisture and creates a crispy exterior.
- 2 cups cauliflower florets – Provides a healthy and hearty side to the dish, complementing the spiced chicken.
- 3 tablespoons Za’atar spice blend – This unique Middle Eastern spice blend gives the chicken its distinct flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For coating the chicken and cauliflower, ensuring they roast perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the chicken and cauliflower.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – For extra depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and cauliflower.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – To garnish the dish and add a fresh, herbaceous note.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. This helps ensure even cooking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Za’atar Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of Za’atar, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well-combined. This marinade will coat the chicken, infusing it with the distinctive flavors of the Za’atar spice blend.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up during roasting. Coat the chicken thighs or breasts with the Za’atar marinade, rubbing the mixture all over the skin, ensuring the chicken is evenly covered. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, you can marinate the chicken for up to 1 hour or even overnight in the fridge for more intense flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Cauliflower
While the chicken marinates, cut the cauliflower into florets. In a separate bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Za’atar. Make sure the florets are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken and Cauliflower
Place the marinated chicken on one side of the prepared baking sheet and arrange the seasoned cauliflower on the other side. Make sure there’s enough space between the chicken and cauliflower to allow for even roasting. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cauliflower is golden and tender.
Step 6: Crisp the Chicken (Optional)
For an extra-crispy skin, turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this time to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the chicken and cauliflower from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the crispy Za’atar chicken alongside the roasted cauliflower for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 32g